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Petrel, The Storm-Child 



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Petrel, the Storm Child 

A Drama in Three Acts 



By 

CHARLES S. BIRD 

Author of *^At the Junction,^* ''Pa's New House^ 

keeper" *'How Jim Made Good" "Elm* 

wood Folks" etc. 



NOTE 

This play may be performed by amateurs free of royalty and 
without express permission. The professional stage-rights are, 
however, strictly reserved, and performance by professional 
actors, given in advertised places of amusement and for profit, is 
forbidden. Persons who may v/ish to produce this play publicly 
and professionally should apply to the author in care of the 
publishers. 



BOSTON 

WALTER H. BAKER & CO. 
1916 



.^ 



Petrel, the Storm Child * 



CHARACTERS 

{In order of appearance) 

Captain Stubbs, a retired skipper. 

Sim Freeman, the constable at "Bay View " 

iZ^'r':.^'''''''^^' "^""T^^'' '^ >^^^' but' known as Pet 
LEM Gale, a sad sea dog. 

Amanda LiBBY. a spinster, but 7iot wiUinglv. 
JABEZ Kingman, keeper of the village store. 
Bob Braxton, a young yachtsman. 
Harry James, Bob's chum. 
Ezra Green, always buttin in. 

Mr. Brief, a lawyer. 
Cecile, a 77iaid. 
Bay View Folks. 

The parts of Lem and Brief may be doubled. 

SYNOPSIS 

Act I. The village store. 

Act II. The home of the Kingmans. 

Act III. Same as Act II. 

Three months are supposed to elapse between Acts I and II 
One week between Acts II and III. ^^"'ccn /icts i ana ll. 




Copyright, 1916, by Charles S. Bird 
As author and proprietor 



Professional and moving picture rights reserved jj ^ 

MAV -4 l9l6©Gt.O 48812 S^O 



TMP92-008654 



STORY OF THE PLAY 

The play opens in the village store of Jabez Kingman, at " Bay 
View," a small seaport town on the New England coast. Jabez's 
daughter " Petrel " helps him in the store. Captain Stubbs, a re- 
tired mariner, and Sim Freeman, the local constable, are playing 
checkers near the stove. The village dressmaker drops in with 
gossip (and an eye for Ezra Green). Bob Braxton and Harry 
James — two young yachtsmen — come in to buy supplies. Bessie 
Stubbs, the .Captain's daughter, arrives. Lem Gale, an old sea- 
man, who "chores" around the store, enters the play story 
through a story which Captain Stubbs tells Bob. Bob tells a story 
too. Captain Stubbs gets something to think about. Ezra Green 
blows in with a piece of news. " The bank has been robbed." 
Through envy and jealousy he incites the constable to arrest Bob 
and Harry as bank burglars. 

The second act takes place in the home of the Kingmans. Pet, 
the daughter, is entertaining Bess Stubbs, Bob, and Harry, at a 
birthday supper. A scene of mirth and jolhty occurs. The village 
friends arrive with gifts for Pet. The Captain has gone on a mys- 
terious errand. A love scene between Bob and Pet. Jabez in 
financial trouble. Old Lem's gift. Mandy Libby, the village 
gossip, pays a visit. The Captain returns. His actions a mystery. 
Pet asks her mother about herself. There are things she does not 
understand. She is then told about her childhood. She was 
rescued from the sea by Jabez when he was a hghthouse keeper. 
Her parentage unknown. She shows her devotion. 

Act III has same setting as Act H. The troubles of Jabez 
increase. Ruin impends. Captain Stubbs a true friend. Mandy 
Libby gets a legacy. "Poor old Lem." Ezra Green has a 
change of heart. Harry is some love maker. A telegram for the 
Captain. A lawyer and a mysterious lady arrive. The history of 
the " Storm Child " is revealed. Bob's " Hope " is reahzed, also 
Harry's, and the end is a happy one for all concerned, including 
Ezra Green. 



COSTUMES 

Time. — Summer. 

Capt. Age fifty -five. Iron-gray wig and short chin beard, 
ordinary suit with a sea touch, for first act. A business suit for 
other acts. 

JABEZ. Dark vest and trousers, no coat, black tie for first act. 
Business suit for other acts ; gray wig. Same age as Captain. 

Bob and Harry. Yachting suits for first, neat summer suits 
for other acts. 

Sim. Policeman's helmet, blue coat with bright buttons, gray 
trousers— all rather seedy — belt and mace ; large star on breast, 
spectacles, thin sandy beard, wig of same ; comedy tie. Age fifty. 

Ezra. Rough suit, no vest, flannel shirt, no tie, straw hat the 
worse for wear for first act. A better suit for other acts, but with 
comedy touch ; trousers hitched high, etc. Age thirty-five. 

Lem. Sea rig, sou'wester hat, pea jacket, overalls or oilskin 
trousers, flannel shirt, black tie, gray whiskers under chin and 
cheeks, wig to match. A very old man. 

Brief. Neat business suit, straw hat. 

Mrs. Kingman. Has on her best dress in Act H. House dress 
for Act III. 

Pet. Dark skirt, shirt-waist, apron, for Act I. Dressed for 
party in Act II. Neat house dress for Act III. 

Bessie. Street dress, hat, parasol for Act I. Same as Pet for 
Act II. Summer dress, hat, for Act III. 

Amanda. Costumes suggesting her character — comedy touch ; 
same all through, or change if desired. 
Cecile. Dressed in black, hat and veil. Middle age. 



Petrel, the Storm Child 



ACT I 

SCENE. — An interior. A small general store in a village on 
the New England coast. Stove, c, with a few cofnmon 
chairs mid some boxes for seats around it. At r., extend- 
ing up and down stage, a counter with showcase, a?id desk 
at upper end. Practical door, b. l. , near end of coufiter. 
Entrance, l. ; entrance, R., near front end of counter. 
Shelves with various supplies, also boxes and barrels about 
room to add to effect. This scene may be made effective by 
adding as much to these suggestions as possible, or if not 
practicable to do this, a few things to carry out the idea will 
suffice very well. 

{At curtain rise, the followifig characters are disclosed: 
Jabez Kingman, behind counter ; Petrel Kingman, also 
behind counter writing at desk ; Captain Stubbs and Sim 
Freeman, the constable, are seated near stove deeply en- 
grossed in a gatne of checkers ; Lem Gale is busy filling 
a fid cleaning some lamps at a small table on L.) 

Capt. {tnaking a move). Your next move, Sim. 

{Sits back and laughs.^ 

Sim. Don't be in sech a rush, Cap'n Stubbs. Wait. {Holds 
up his ha7id.') Humph ! lemme see. (Sim is very near-sighted.) 
Yew think you're tarnal smart, don't ye, Stubbs? {Gives it 
up.) But lemme tell ye, ye wouldn't 'a' won that one ef I 
hadn't made sech a fool play back there where yew 

Capt. Oh, yes, I know, Sim ; you've got t' have some ex- 
cuse. Why can't ye be a sport an' own up t' bein' beat because 
you was playin' with a better man ? 

{Winks at Jabez, who laughs quietly.') 

Sim {nettled). Oh, ef that's what ye think, I'll jest play ye 

5 



6 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

one more. {Arranges men again,) An' 'member, this'll be 
th' rubber. Humph ! An' say, yew talk so much about bein' 
a "sport " ; I'll bet ye th' cheroots thet I take thet tough sea- 
tanned hide offn ye this time. 

Capt. (^laughing), I'll go ye, Sim. Don't mind smokin' 
at your expense; 'tain't so ofn I git a chance. {To Jabez.) 
Jabez, I guess you'd better charge Sim up with a couple o' 
cheroots in case he should want t' back out after th' game. 

Sim. Talk's cheap, Cap'n Stubbs. {Moves.) Go ahead 
with th' game, why don't ye ? 

( The game proceeds. ) 

Pet. {looking up from her work and calling loudly). Lem 1 
{No answer.) Lem! {Louder; no reply. \,ym works away ; 
he is very deaf.) Oh, dear {comi7ig around y.), what a bother 
the poor old man is, anyway. ( Crosses to Lem and shouts in 
his ear.) Lem ! 

Ij^m {Jumpi7ig). H-H-H-Hey? {Lem, besides being deaf ^ 
stammers in a rather high-keyed voice. Puts his ha?id to his 
ear.) D-D-D-D-Did y-y-y-y-ou s-s-s-speak? 

Pet. {laughing). " Speak " ? I should say I did. {hi his 
ear.) When you get through with these lamps I want you to 
sweep the floor. Do you hear ? 

Lem. Y-Y-Y-Yes, c-c-c-course I d-d-do; m-m-m-my h-h- 
hearin's a-a-a-g-g-g-gittin' b-b-better all t-t-t-th' t-t-t-time. 
(Pet. laughs doubtfully and returns to her station. Enter 
Amanda Libby, door r. Lem chuckles^ W-W-W-W-When 
I w-w-w-was a-c-c-c-cruisin' o-o-o-off'n th-th-th-the B-B-B-B- 
Bar-b-b-b-badoes 

Aman. Good-mornin', everybody. 

{She nods to each in turn, who respond.) 

Lem. He, he, he ! {Chuckles as he works.) 

Aman. It is such a fine mornin' out, but good land 

Jabez. What can we do for you to-day, Mandy ? 
Aman. Wait a minnit; no hurry, Jabez. I've just been 
down by the ^^pot and took a turn 'round up Water Street, 
but, as I said before, good land, there ain't a soul stirrin' in 
this whole blessed village; it's as dead as a herrin'. If it gets 
much more so, I shouldn't wonder if it dried up an' blew away 
some of these days. 

Capt. {looking up). Don't worry, Mandy; there's no 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 7 

danger of any extensive stagnation in Bay View as long as we 
have you around to keep things stirred up. (Laughs to hijnself.') 

Aman. (Partly). Well, somebody's got to have a little life 
if the community's goin' to be saved from the dry rot, Cap'n 
Stubbs. I'm sure it don't make it no livelier to have most of 
the able-bodied men in the place settin' around a cold stove on 
a warm day playin' checkers from mornin' to night. 

Capt. Haw, haw, haw I Keelhauled, by cracky ! No use 
t' argue with you, Mandy. 

{They all laughy and Capt. resumes his game. Lem gets 
through with the lamps. Gets broom and sweeps j mak- 
ing first Sim and then Capt. movet much to their atmoy- 
ance.^ 

Aman. Yes, it's awful quiet here this summer. I don't 
think 

Jabez. You are right, Mandy ; it is quiet, too quiet. Since 
these new people have come in over at Gull Point, built a 
hotel and started a store, we feel the difference. (Sighs.) If 
things get much worse I'm afraid I shall 

Pet. Now, daddy dear, don't you go to fretting about the 
business again. (Puts her arm about him.) I am sure every- 
thing will come out all right ; business will pick up by an' by. 

Jabez (patting her cheek). Well, Pet, I hope it will. I 
wish I could be as sanguine about it as you are. 

Aman. Of course it will, Jabez. I didn't mean more'n 
half what I said. One has to have something to talk about, 
you know, and that makes me think, I want to buy somethin' 
myself (Opens her purse.) 

Jabez. What will it be, Mandy ? 

Aman. (thinking). Let me see. Oh, yes ; I would like a 
paper of pins. 

(Jabez gets them.) 

Jabez. What else ? 

Aman. That's all, I guess, to-day. (Starts to go ; returns,') 
I almost forgot, there was a little life out on the harbor. 

Pet. Was there ? What was it, Mandy ? 

Aman. A pretty little yacht. Must have come some time 
in the night and anchored a little way south of Taber's wharf. 
There was folks aboard of her this mornin', but I couldn't 
make out how many there was, or whether they were men or 
women, or both. I wonder what she is doing in here ? There'll 



8 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

be somebody ashore, I shouldn't be a bit surprised. But I 
must be goin'. {Goes to door ; turns ; hesitates.') I don't 
suppose Ezra's been in this mornin', has he? • 

Jabez. Didn't see him. 

Aman. Oh, it's no matter. Good-bye. \Exit, door b. 

Pet. {smiling). Amanda's courage in regard to Ezra Green 
surely ought to be well pricked up by this time if pins will do 
it. This is the third paper she has bought this week on the 
chance of running across him here. 

Capt. Makes me think of th' old sayin', " Where there's 
life there's hope." Guess that may account for Mandy's anx- 
iety about the lack of life in Bay View. Ha, ha ! 

E7iter Bob Braxton and Harry James, door b. 

Bob {breezily t to Jabez). Good-morning, sir. A fine day. 

Jabez. It is ; very fine, indeed. What can we do for you 
this morning ? 

Bob. I have just put in at your port in my boat, and I find 
I am a little short of supplies. I suppose — {looking around; 
he and Capt. eyeing one another curiously) I suppose I can ob- 
tain what I require here? {Looks at Capt. again.) 

Jabez {brightening). I hope so, I am sure. What do you 
wish ? (Lem, who has finished his sweeping and go?ie off L. , 
now enters and beckons rather mysteriously to Jabez. The 
two young men glance at him with lively curiosity.) What is 
it, Lem? (Lem co7itinues to beckon.) Humph! No use to 
talk to him. I suppose I'll have to go and see what he wants. 
You attend to the wants of this gentleman, will you ? 

Pet. All right, daddy. I'll take the order. (Jabez fol- 
lows Lem off \.. Pet. to Bob.) What did you wish, sir? 

Bob {raising his cap). If you will pardon the question, I 
would like very much to know if that — that person I saw just 
now was the shade of the ''Ancient Mariner," or the celebrated 
old fellow himself ? 

Pet. {smiling). He is almost ancient enough, likewise a 
mariner, but decidedly not the personage to whom you refer. 
But in regard to your order. {Takes book atid pencil.) 

Bob. Oh, yes, certainly. Pray pardon my curiosity. 
{Takes paper from pocket.) I have a list all made out. If 
you would be good enough to send these things down to the 
wharf some time to-day I will have them taken aboard. 

Pet. {running over the list). Bread, butter, eggs, cheese, 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 9 

pickles, olives, flour, matches, tobacco. Yes, sir, we can have 
them down there by four o'clock. Will that do? 

( While Bob is ordering Har. has gone over and stands 
watching the game of checkers.') 

Bob. I think so, and thank you very much. (71? Har.) 
We will not have to sail before five o'clock to make the point 
before dark, will we, Harry ? 

Har. {coiniTig over). No, I don't think so; why? 

Bob. On account of these groceries. 

Pet. Is there anything more, sir ? 

Bob (try i fig to think up something). N-o, I do not know 
of anything else. Did you want anything, Harry ? 

Har. {also trying to think of something). Let me see ; oh, 
yes, I believe I'd Uke to get some perfectos. {To Pet.) Do 
you have any ? 

Pet. {puzzled). I — I think not. What are they, please ? 

Har. {blankly). ''What are they"? Oh, pray excuse 
me. It's a brand of cigars. 

Pet. We have hardly any call for the better grades of smok- 
ing material, I am sorry to say, so I am afraid we cannot sup- 
ply you with what you wish. 

Har. It does not matter in the least. Something else will 
do as well. I suppose you have some cheroots ? 

Pet. Oh, yes, we have those. 

Har. They will do. Please put in a box. I am very fond 
of them. {Makes grimace aside.) 

Enter Jabez a7id Lem, l. 

Jabez {to Bob). Well, sir, did you find what you wished ? 
Bob. Yes, sir, and I 

Enter Ezra Green hurriedly at door b. 

Ezra. Say, Cap'n, say, Sim, did ye hear th' news ? 

Capt. {dryly). No, Ez, what is it ? Been doin' a day's 
work ? 

Ezra {excitedly). Somebody broke inter th' bank last night. 

Lem {puttifig hand to ear). H-H-Hay? 

Capt. Sho ! ye don't say so? 

Sim. Great lobsters ! {Jumps up wildly excited ; grabs 
his mace; settles his helmet on his head.) Who? Where? 
Did they git away ? {Squints at Ezra.) 



10 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

Ezra. I dunno; you're th' constable; you'd better be 



a 



Sim. I'll git 'em. I'll git 'em. Come on, Cap'n Stubbs, 
come on, Ez. We'll git up a posse and 

{^Hurries off at door b.) 

Capt. {laughing^. Yes, you'll git 'em. Mebby. Ha, ha! 

\^Exit after Sim. 

Lem {doddering around the store^. He, he ! w-w-w-when 
I wa-wa-wa-vvas a-cu-cu-cu-cruisin' or-or-or-off th-th-th-the 
B-B-B-Bar-b-b-b-badoes 

Jabez. Never mind now, Lem. {In his ear.') Go down 
to the depot and see if there is any freight there for us. 

(Lem nods ; goes off, l., stammering and nodding.) 

Bob (looking after him). What a quaint old barnacle, eh, 
Harry ? 

Har. Ha, ha ! a "sad sea dog," sure enough. Come on. 
Bob. Let's go see the constable arrest some one. 

(Starts toward door b.) 

Bob. All right, in a moment. (To Pet.) If there is any- 
thing more I can possibly think of that we need I will return 
and order it. 

(They appear to be inutually attracted to each other,) 

Pet. Very well, sir. 
Jabez. Good-day, gentlemen. 
Bob. Good-day. 
Har. Good-day, sir^ 

(Raising their caps the young men exeunt , door b.) 

Jabez. Now, I suppose I will have to go into the other room 
and look over those goods. 

Pet. All right, daddy, I'll attend to the store. (Exit 
Jabez, l. Pet. goes to the door, looks out, returns to her 
writing lost in thought. She sighs as she resumes her pen. 
Ezra, who has remained in the store watching the others, now 
gets up from where he has been seated and crosses over and 
leans on the counter. Pet. looks up.) Do you want anything, 
Ezra? 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD II 

Ezra. No, nothin' in pertick'lar. Who was them two fel- 
lers what jest went out ? 

Pet. I did not know them, Ezra, but I suppose from what 
they said they were from the yacht that came into the harbor 
last night. 

Ezra. More'n likely some more o' them smart Alecks who 
are alius a-runnin' up an' down th' coast. I hate 'em like 
pizen. 

Pet. I hardly see why you should. They are usually very 
kind and well bred. 

Ezra {sneering). Yah, "well bred"; that sort o' thing 
seems t' suit you all right, but it makes me sick. 

Pet. {pleasantly). Of course it suits me ; why shouldn't it ? 

Ezra {shrugging his shoulders). Oh, well, everybody to 
their likin', but I know one thing, I wisht you'd give up your 
foolin' an' settle down t' somethin'. 

Pet. {amused). " Settle down " ? What do you mean by 
that, Ezra? 

Ezra. You know well enough what I mean. You know 
what I asked you th' other night when I cum 'round t' your 
house. 

Pet. Oh, I do know what you mean now, but {gently) you 
must remember what I told you at that time, that you must not 
think of such a thing, and I can only repeat now what I said 
then : the great disparity in our ages, and — and — oh, many, 
many other things, render what you have asked impossible. 
Please try to think of me as a friend, a very good friend, and 
be satisfied with that, won't you? 

Ezra {angrily). No, I won't. I want ye t' be 

Pet. {with dignity). Very well, then, I think we need say 
no more on the subject. 

Ezra {tauntingly). Oh, yes, I can see how 'tis with you ; 
let some o' these here summer folks cum 'round, an' you are 
all eyes an' ears to 'em ; seem t' think ye are one on 'em, I 
guess, by th' way ye act, an' sum on 'em acts th' same way 
with you. Huh, ye 'pear t' look down on "Bay View" folks 
since ye got out'n short skirts. But I don't see's ye need ter. 
Why, ef it hadn't 'a' been fer 

Pet. Mr. Green, you have said quite enough. Either you 
will leave the store at once or I will call my father, and 

Ezra. Your " father " ? Huh, all right, I'll leave. But 
ril bet ye one thing, and that is that some time you'll be made 
a fool on by one o' these summer jays, an' then ( Goes,) 



12 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

Efiter Bessie Stubbs, door b. 

Bess, {pleasantly'). Good-morning, Ezra. What appears 
to be wrong with you to-day ? Cheer up. I just saw Mandy 
Libby looking around down by the depot. I think she was 
looking for 

Ezra. Mandy Libby? Shucks! 

(^Goes out slamming the door,) 

Bess. Oh, my, what a grouch. What's wrong with Ezra 
Green this morning. Pet ? 

Pet. {coming around). Oh, you know, Bess. {Half 
vexed.) I told you all about our conversation the other night. 
He has just had another attack and provoked me into being a 
little too severe with him perhaps. 

Bess, {laughing). You, severe? Well, that's a good one. 
Sorry I did not arrive in time for the exhibition, though I cer- 
tainly wouldn't have blamed you if you had been, for he is a 
pest and a trial, always "butting in," as father says. 

Pet. And he taunted me with trying to be agreeable and 
social with the summer people whom we meet once in a while 
Of course I am, but I do not have to try to be, as Ezra seems 
to think. Some way, I hardly know how to express it, Bess, I 
always feel, when with them, as though I was where I had a 
perfect right to be. Why is it, dear? It is not that I do not 
love our dear Bay View people with all my heart, daddy and 
you, and your father and all the rest, for I do, still 

Bess, {hugging her). Whatever it is, it is no fault of yours, 
anyway, so why bother your head about it, you silly child ? 
{Shakes her.) What do you care what Ezra Green says> But 
what I dropped in to ask you was this : Who were those two 
howling swells I saw coming out of the store a little while ago? 

Pet. {laughing). Why, Bess, you are as curious as Ezra 

Green. How should / know who they were ? Just customers, 

'?^\^ ^}}\ , ^^^"^ ^^^^ ^ ^°°^ ^^^^^> ^vhich pleased daddy, and 
that s all I know about them. 

Bess. But not all you are likely to. 

Pet. How is that? 

Bess. Because, having seen you once, they are sure to re- 
turn for another look. {Laughs ; hu^s her again ) 
^Ki. {breaking away). Bess Stubbs, you horrid thing! 
{S'oes behind counter,) Is there anything you desire to pur- 



chase this morning, Miss Stubbs? We have sonae excellent 
taffy. I think your supply must be running low. 

( They both laugh. ) 

Enter Capt., door b. 

Capt. What's the joke, girls? By cracky, I believe you 
two would find something to laugh about at a funeral. 

Enter Bob and Har. at door b. 

Pet. Only some more of Bessie's foolishness, Captain. 
Capt. I dare say ; and if Bess had as much money as she 
has foolishness she'd be mighty well off. Wouldn't you, puss? 

{Puts his arm about her.) 

Bess. Perhaps I would, pa, but I guess I came by it 
honestly as an inheritance from the paternal side of the house. 

(They laugh.) 

Bob {to Capt., comi?ig dowti). Pardon me, sir, but may I 
inquire if you are not the Captain Stubbs who was down at 
Crescent beach three years ago taking parties out fishing and 
sailing ? 

Capt. {looking at him closely). I am, young man, and I 
believe there's somethin' about your face that I ought to re- 

niember, but (Bob tenders his card.) Oh, yes, sure 

enough; Braxton. I thought you looked kinder familiar. 
{Shakes ha?ids.) How's your father and mother? 

Bob. Very well indeed, thank you. They often speak of 
the day you took us out fishing, and the glorious luck we had 
with the bluefish. 

Capt. {pleased). Sho, do they, now? Well, well, they 
were fine folks an' I took a big likin' to 'em, that's a fact. 
{Looks Bob over.) But you're a good bit bigger' n ye was three 
years ago. 

Bob {laughing). I suppose so. A few years makes quite a 
difference with a fellow who still has a little to grow. 

Capt. That's right. But say, here I am gossiping away 
like Mandy Libby with two nice girls — at least / think they are 
pretty nice — waiting here for an introduction. {Laughs.) 
Girls, I want ye to meet Mr. Braxton, I knew him when he 
was a boy, knew his father and mother ; and I want to say 



14 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

right here, that if he is anythin' at all like them he's made o' 
about the right sort o' stuff. Mr. Braxton, this is my daughter 
Bessie and her bosom friend, Miss Kingman. 

{All three bow.) 

Bob. This is a delightful surprise, Captain and ladies. I 
did not expect to find any old acquaintances or make any new 
ones in Bay View. And now you must all meet my friend, 
Mr. Harry James. Harry, Captain Stubbs, Miss Stubbs and 
Miss Kingman. 

(Acknowledg77ie?its all around.') 

Har. Very glad to meet you, I am sure. It appears to be 
a very fortunate thing for Bob and me that he should have for- 
gotten part of his needs and had to return for them. {Mis- 
chievously.) What was it you forgot, Bob ? 

Bob {puzzled). H'm, what was it, now ? Oh, never mind ; 
it will come to me later. What do you say, Harry, to inviting 
the Captain and the ladies for a little sail to-morrow ? That 
is, if they would 

Har. That would be fine. What do you say, ladies ? 

Bess. / think it would be jolly. Would you go, pa ? 

Pet. It is very kind of you, I am sure. What do you 
think, Captain Stubbs ? 

Capt. I don't see anything t' hinder, for my part. 

Enter Ezra, door b. He looks at the group very sourly ; sits 
near stove. 

Pet. But I thought you were to leave port this evening ? 

Bob {aside). Humph ! I forgot about that. What excuse 
can I invent? {Gets idea.) I believe that was per schedule. 
Miss Kingman, but it was not at all important, and — ahem — 
and since we have heard of this burglary {winking at Har., 
who laughs aside ; Ezra watches them) we have decided to 
remain in port a while and see if they succeed in arresting the 
criminal ; and being in search of adventure, we might lend a 
hand if assistance should be required. 

{They all laugh ^ 

Enter Sim, door b. ; squints around. Ezra beckons to hintf 
very mysterious. He sits beside Ezra, and they talk in 
whispers, looking toward group at counter once in a while. 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 1 5 

Har. Yes, we might turn in and do a little detective work 
ourselves if your constable should happen to fall down on the 
job. 

(Ezra nudges Sim, who does not seem to he very much 
pleased with Har.'s remark. The young people chat — 
Har. with Bess, Bob with Pet., Capt. looking on ap- 
provingly.') 

Ezra {aside to Sim). Yes, sir, Sim. It jest struck me all 
on a sudden as I set here a-watchin' 'em. What be them two 
fellers hangin' 'round here fer? No good, I bet ye. It's jest 
as I tell ye \ I shouldn't wonder a mite ef it was them that 
broke inter th' bank last night ; they look t' me like slick ones 
an' none too good fer it. 

Sim {aside to Ezra, slapping him on the knee). By th* 
great lobsters, I b'lieve ye're right, Ez. It's a wonder we 
didn't think on it afore. (Sim tiptoes across and looks Bob 
a7id Har. over nearsightedly, much to their amusement as 
well as mystification ; retur?is to Ezra. ) Yes, sir, dummed ef 
I don't b'lieve you're right, Ez; they do look like a pair o' jail 
birds when ye git a good look at 'em. What'U we do, hey? 

Ezra. Do? 'Rest 'em, of course. (^Eagerly.) 

Sim {a Itttle doubtfully). But ye got t' have evidence, ye 
know. 

Ezra. Evidence? Well, hain't ye got it? What more 
d'ye want ? Wasn't th' winder open ? 

Sim. So 'twas. I snum I'll do it, but we must go down 
t' th' bank fust an' look 'round agin. There might be suthin' 
more. 

(He crosses and looks the boys over again. Same business 
as before ; returiis ; beckons mysteriously to Ezra, and 
they tiptoe off stage, L., bumping i7ito Lem, who enters at 
the same time.) 

Bob. Ha, ha ! I wonder what your chief of police is doing 
the gum-shoe act around here for, instead of looking for a trail 
nearer the scene of the robbery ? 

Capt. Him ? Ho ! He couldn't see a trail if 'twas right 
under his nose, and 'twouldn't do him any good if he could, 
for he wouldn't know what 'twas. 

(All laugh, "Lem. joining in.') 



i6 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 



Lem. He, he ! Wh-wh-wh-when I wa-wa-wa-was a-cu-cu- 
cu-cruisin' or-or-or-off'n th-th-the B-B-B-Bar-b-b-b-ba 

Enter Jabez, l. 

Jabez {bawling). Never mind, Lem. You go into the 
other room now and sort those potatoes. 

Lem. H-H-Hay? 

Jabez (shouthig). Po-ta-toes ! 

Lem. D-D-D-Does it? He, he! Ye or-or-or-ought-t-ter 
s-s-s-seen it b-b-b-blow wh-wh-when 

hi^Zl^ ^!'pff ^f ^ ^entrance, r., points off and shouts in 
nM r V^^''^'''"- ^^^'^ods and shuffles off ^.\ Poor 
old chap, he seems to be getting worse and worse (Lhs ) 

Bess. This will not do for me ; I must be going. Pet Are 
you gomg home now, pa? ^ ^' 

Capt. Not just now, Bess. 

Har. {quickly). I have to go also. May I walk alon^ 
with you as far as the post-office? ^ ^ 

Go^d-bye.^"''^'''^^ ^^" ""^^^ ^'- J^"^^'- ^^' '^' ^^^O 
{All respond. Exeunt, door b.) 
Pet. {calling after the?n). Bess-Bess. {To the others ^ 
morrX."' ' "''"'"' ' ^'"^ ^^ ^^^ ^^^ ^^^-^^ing about ^^ 

iSheruns off after the other two. Jabez goes behind counter. 

Thl'/n . '''''''^''' '''''' i^i^^^^iove and sit down, 
j hey fall into conversation, during the progress of which 
there shoud be a side action of customer s^omin^ in Td 
o7^!rfi''' /^ ^"'"' ""''"^ '^^'^^'^'^ '' ^^^^-' Giving an 
tiZttZ?^^ f TZf^'''''' '^'y^'' ^f odd characters 
fhfZ- I ^^oj^taNew England seaport town. But 
this action should not be accented to the extent of inter- 
fere?ice with the dialogue.) ^ 

Bob Do you smoke, Captain? {Offers a ci<rar^ The 
heve I remember you with a pretty well^asonedXe in vou; 
mouth when we were on that fishing trip ^ ^ ^ 

Ye?T;hoHH'l^'' T^^?^''-) I don't care if I do. {Laughs) 

? mine rrl'' 7".^''i^^^"^' ^" ''''^^' remember\hat^"pi 
o mine. {They light up.) I caught her lookin' at it mighty 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 1 7 

hard when it commenced t' git kinder choppy out there on th' 
reef that day, so I jest slid it quietly into th' locker. . Ha, ha ! 

(Lem shuffles in at r., gets a basket, and returns.) 

Bob {eyeing him curiously). That old chap is what you 
might call a regular shell-back. Is he a native of Bay View ? 

Capt. Lem? Oh, yes, always lived here when he wasn't at 
sea \ but as he went sailoring when he was mighty young, and 
left off when he was mighty old, he ain't what you might call 
a lifelong resident. 

Bob {laughing). I should say not. Do you know what it 
is he is trying to say all the time ? 

Capt. Sure. It's an old story 'round these parts. Lem'sa 

leetle {Taps his head. Bob nods.) Has been ever since 

it happened, which was a pretty good spell ago now, but some- 
times, like to-day, it seems to be runnin' in th' old feller's head 
stronger'n usual. 

Bob. Would you care to tell me the story ? 

Capt. No objections. Lem was an ordinary seaman at the 
time, on a packet plyin' between Boston and the West Indies. 
They were, as he says, " cruisin' off the Barbadoes," when they 
were caught in a tornado ; the ship foundered and sunk, but 
Lem managed to ketch hold of a small gig that was slippin' by, 
pulled himself aboard, and succeeded in rescuin' one of th' 
passengers who was goin' down for th' last time, he and Lem 
bein' th' only ones saved. All th' rest went down with th' 
ship. They came mighty nigh bein* lost, too, for they drifted 
about for five days without food or drink, but finally they were 
picked up by a vessel that was homeward bound, and brought 
into port. The passenger Lem saved was said to be a pretty 
wealthy man traveling for his health, and some say he made 
Lem a handsome present, but no one knows for certain, as Lem 
is pretty close mouthed as well as a little miserly, and no one 
has ever heard him say whether it is so or not. He went to 
sea again for a few more voyages, but finally gave it up, and 
Jabez has had him pottering around the store for the past few 
years doin' odd jobs. The people of the village are all pretty 
good to him, 'specially Mandy Libby the dressmaker, who is a 
good little woman, and has always looked after what few clothes 
he needs. 

Bob {reflectively). Poor old chap, his story somehow re- 
minds me of something I have read or heard, but I don't seem 
to be able to recall it just now. 



l8 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

Capt. That might easily be ; such yarns are common enough 
around the coast. {Srfiiles.) Also in books. 

Bob {absently). Yes, I suppose they are. • 

Capt. Ahem. Do you ever play a game o' checkers, Mr. 
Braxton ? 

Bob. Checkers ? Sure, one of my favorite games. {Looks 
at his watch.) Why, do you think you can beat me? 

(Capt. gets the board.) 

Capt. {laughi??g). I dunno, but I might make a try at it if 
you are agreeable. {Looks at Bob inquiringly. ) 

Bob. I am {hitching i/p his chair), and we'll see about this 
beating business. 

{They arrange men and start to play.) 

Enter Pet., door b. She goes behind counter. Lem enters k. 
He beckons to Jabez. 

Jabez. All right, Lem. {To Pet.) I suppose I will have 
to go and sort those potatoes myself if I want it done at all. 

[Exeunt Jabez atid Lem, r. 

Capt. {jumping). Well, young man, there's three that won't 
bother ye any more. {Smiles.) 

Bob. That's right. I guess my mind was not on the game 
just then. 

(Pet. co?nes over and looks on for a mo77ient.) 

Pet. Excuse me, please, but will you call me, Captain 
Stubbs, if any one comes in ? I have to attend to something in 
the other room. 

Capt. All right, Pet, run along. Me an' Mr. Braxton '11 
run the store while you're gone. 

Pet. Thank you. {She goes off i..) 

Bob {half jumping up; disarra?iging the checkers). By 
Jove, Captain, I have it. 

Capt. {looking at the checkers rueftilly). I guess mebby ye 
have, but I kinder think I'd 'a' had it myself if you'd waited a 
few minutes longer. 

Bob. I am very sorry about the board. Captain, but the 
game was yours, anyway. 1 was thinking about that story 
of Lem's. I knew it was familiar in some way, and it has just 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD I9 

come to me. That man whom Lem saved was a relative of 
mine, a distant cousin. 

Capt. {interested). Sho, you don't say so ? 

Bob. I have often heard my mother speak of it. Would 
you like to hear the story ? That is, the rest of it ? You know 
part of it already. 

Capt. Surely, surely ; spin us th' yarn. 

Bob. I will, in return for what you have already told me 
about poor old Lem here. The story is a long one, but I will 
be as brief as I possibly can. It is not only long, but sad as 
well. The man's name was VVetherill, James Wetherill. 

Capt. (jioddi?ig). That's right, that was the name. I'd 
nearly forgotten it, which is not very strange, as we never knew 
anything about him down here, excepting that he was the man 
Lem picked up. 

{There should be soft music as Bob tells story.) 

Bob. This Mr. Wetherill had met with a very great loss not 
long before the time of the shipwreck, and had started on a tour 
of the world in order, if possible, to find some means by which 
he could divert his mind from his sorrow. His home was near 
the sea, just where, I do not know. He was a man of much 
wealth, and had a beautiful wife, and a lovely child, a little girl 
about three years old, whom they both idolized. They had in 
their employ a nurse, a French girl, who was at times very neg- 
ligent in her care of the child. Once, during the absence of 
the mother, she had allowed her to play in the laundry, where 
she fell against a hot stove sustaining a very severe burn on her 
neck, for which the nurse was reprimanded severely, but still 
retained in their service, with the hope that the lesson might 
prove to be a salutary one. Their hope, however, was without 
foundation, for not long after this experience, while both the 
parents were away at a distant estate, the nurse was down by 
the beach at the evening hour, and to please the child had 
placed her in a small boat lying near the edge of the sea, and 
in the course of a flirtation with one of the male servants of the 
house the child was forgotten. The rising tide floated the boat 
off from the shore, and when the nurse finally remembered her 
charge, both boat and child had disappeared in the gathering 
gloom {sadly), and were never heard from afterward. (Capt. 's 
cigar falls from his mouth. He listens ifitently. After a 
short pause Bob contiimes.) Of course, when too late, the 
nurse was frantic, the alarm was given, the parents summoned 



20 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

home, but a brisk offshore breeze had arisen, and although an 
immediate search was made up and down the coast and out to 
sea, it was of no avail. Rewards were offered, mcney spent 
Uke water, but the search finally had to be abandoned. The 
grief of the mother soon led to a decline to which she suc- 
cumbed in a few months. The father's story you know some- 
thing of, for it was to help him forget that he took the voyage 
of which you know ; but after his experience in the boat with 
Lem his health also gave way, and he followed his wife in a 
very short time. The nurse, conscience stricken and repentant, 
entered a retreat where I am told she has since remained. 

Capt. {shaking his head). It is a sad story, one of the sad- 
dest I ever knew. And did this man I think you said 

he was quite wealthy ? 

Bob. Quite so, yes. 

Capt. What disposition was made of his property, do you 
know ? 

Bob. Rather an odd one, showing that up to the last he 
had not abandoned hope. His property was left in trust to be 
divided between several charitable institutions provided noth- 
ing was heard of the child for twenty years. 

Capt. {thoughtfully). H'm, yes, I see. {Lays his hand 
on Bob's knee.) This story interests me very much, but, if I 
were you, I would not say anything about it in Bay View. 
This suggestion may seem a little odd to you, but I 

Bob. Oh, not at all. I would never have thought of it had 
it not been for what you have told me about Lem, and it is 
certainly very strange our fitting the two yarns together in this 
way. Don't you think so? 

Capt. It is strange, indeed. {Enter Pet., l. She crosses 
and goes behind counter. E?iter next, Ezra, at door b. He 
co?nes down by stove. Sim notv steals in at l. He beckons 
and squints at Ezra, very mysterious. Ezra sees him and 
crosses. They talk together in whispers. Finally tiptoe off 
together, l. Capt. looks at watch.) H'm, time I was goin' 
home, I guess. Goin' my way, Mr. Braxton ? 

Bob. In a moment, if you will wait for me to leave a small 
order. {Crosses to counter and converses with Pet.) 

Enter Har. and Bess., door b. 

Har. {to Bob). Came back to see if you were not about 
ready to go aboard ? 
Bob {over his shoulder). In a moment, Harry. 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 21 

(Resumes his co fiver sation,) 

Bess. And I came to escort you home too, pa. Don't you 
think 

Capt. {teasitigly). Yes, I see you did, puss, under convoy. 
Ha, ha ! 

(Bess., confused, turns away.) 

Enter Aman., door b. Looks around store. 

Am AN. Did you see {Stops 07i seeing so niany.') I — 

I mean, could you let me have a 

Pet. Paper of pins, Mandy ? 

Aman. Y-Yes, I think so. I am almost out of them. 

{She makes the purchase while the Bay View folks smile 
aside.) 

Capt. S'pose it takes a good many o' them little articles in 
your business, don't it, Mandy? 

Aman. Indeed it does. You'd be surprised to see what a 
little way a mouthful of pins will go when you are dressmaking, 
and then they are always getting lost, swept out and one thing 
and another. It's lucky they don't cost much ; if they did I'm 
afraid I'd soon be on my way to the poorhouse. 

Capt. Well, Mandy, it makes business pretty good for 
Jabez here, if 'tis a little dull in other lines. 

Enter Jabez, l. 

Jabez. What's that. Captain Stubbs? 

Capt. I was speakin' 'bout th' pin trade bein' pretty brisk 
on account o' Mandy's dressmakin' operations. 

Jabez {sinilifig). I wish I had as good customers for some 
of my other wares as Mandy is for pins. 

Enter Sim and Ezra, l. They stop l. 

Aman. {crossing). Why, Ezra, I'd no idea you were here ! 
Are you going down my way ? 

Ezra. No, not now, Mandy. I got some other fish t' fry. 

{Nudges Sim, who jumps.) 

Sim. Confound ye ! {Nurses his ribs.) Wha' d'ye mean? 

(Ezra whispers in his ear. Sim nods.) 



22 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

Capt. {amused). What's all th' mystery 'bout, Sim? Did 
ye ketch th' burglar yet ? 

Sim (rather nervous). Not yit, but I guess I kiiow where I 
kin lay my hands on him, all right. Hey, Ez? 

Ezra. You bet, Sim. 

Capt. Sho, ye don't say? Been doin' a little detective 
work, eh? 

E?iter Lem, r. 

Sim. Ye'a, me 'n' Ez here. Come on, Ez. {They cross to 
the boys. Sim squints at Har. ; lays his ha?id on his shoulder.) 
This is th' chap. CHar. is too astonished to speak.) I 'rest 
ye in th' name o' th' commonwealth fer 

Ezra. Hold on, Sim. Ye got th' wrong one. 

Sim. Hey? {Squints at Har.) Oh {squifiting at Bob), 
sure 'nough. (Bob nmch amused^ I 'rest ye in th' name o* 
th' commonwealth fer breakin' an' enterin' with malice afore- 
thought fer th' puppose o' burglaryizin' th' Fust Naytion'l Bank 
o' Bay View, an' ye better come along o' me peaceably or take 
th' consequences. {Claps hand on Bob's shoulder.) 

Ezra. An' Sim here, he's deppytized me t' 'rest you (lay- 
ing hand on Har.'s shoulder) fer bein' a accessible to th' same. 

(All laugh but Sim, Ezra and Lem.) 

Capt. Why, ye old fool, what do you mean? This is 
absurd. Why, you 

Sim. Cap'n Stubbs, don't ye dare t' interfere with th* 
majesty o' th' law. 

Lem. Wh-wh-wh- what's it a-a-a-all a-b-b-b-bout, S-S-S-S- 
Sim? 

Sim (jhoutifig). Robb'ry, Lem ! 

Lem. H-H-H-Hey? 

Sim (bawling). Robbin' th' bank ! 

Lem (nodding afid chuckling). He, he ! Wh-wh-wh- when 
I wa-wa-was a-c-c-c-c-cruisin' or-or-or-off' n th-th-th-the B-B-B- 
B-Bar 



QUICK CURTAIN 



ACT II 

Three months elapse between Acts I and II 

SCENE. — A living-room in the home of the Kifigtnans. A 
dining table, c, laid for four. Old style table if obtain- 
able, with drop leaves to economize space when it is pushed 
back against wall. Otherwise use small table. A fireplace 
071 R. with semblaftce of fire when evetiiug lamp is lit. 
Small sofa back l. Four chairs for table use. Two or 
three rockers about room, one fiear fireplace. Family Bible 
and album for table when arranged for the evenifig. Simple 
pictures and ornameiits around rooin. Old style furtiiture 
will ifiake scene effective. A room fairly well, but simply 
furnished. 

{At curtain rise, Pet. and Bess., Bob and Har. are dis- 
covered at table, the two girls behind, facitig F., the boys 
R. a7id I.., fust concluding supper in honor of Pet.'s birth- 
day. Arrange table and food to convey this idea. A 
birthday cake with six candles burning is ready to cut. 
Entrances to room r. a7id l.) 

Har. {sitting back in chai?-). I don't know how the rest 
of the party feel, but I think that from both the social as well 
as the gastronomic point of view this little affair has been a 
huge success. What say you, Bob ? 

Bob. Your sentiments are mine, only I am not quite ready 
yet to speak of it in the past tense. I was about to propose a 
toast in honor of the hostess of the occasion. What shall we 
drink it in ? {Looks arou?id table.') 

Bess. Gentlemen, I am surprised at you. Don't you know 
that the most important ceremony is yet to be performed ? 

Har. I'll have to plead ignorance. What is it? 

Bess. How stupid you are. Cutting the birthday cake, to 
be sure. Are you ready. Pet ? 

Pet. {laughing). Oh, yes, simply dying to, Bess. Who 
blows out the candles ? 



hTk.{k-'^-)-{H: 



23 



24 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

Pet. I think the ayes have it, so you will each extinguish 
one- half. , 

Bob {cou?iting). One, two, three, four, five, six. I would 
hardly have thought you as old as that. Miss Kingman. You 
don't look it. 

Pet. {bowing). I thank you, kind sir. 

Har. Add ten. Bob. That should be about right, I think. 

E filer Mrs. Kingman, r., with a pitcher of water. 
Pet. I think I will have to refer you both to mother. 
(Smiles.) 

Bob. How is it, Mrs. Kingman ? Harry guesses your 
daughter is sixteen to-day, while I, having nothing to go by ex- 
cept the candles on the birthday cake, have a suspicion that 
she is trying to have us believe that she is still a child. 

Mrs. K. {smiling). I think she is hardly old enough yet 
to desire to conceal her age, but is it important that you know ? 

Bob. Oh, very. You see I am going to propose a toast, 
and it is quite important that I know whether to say ^' in honor 
of your sixth, or your sixteenth birthday." 

Pet. Either one of which would be wrong, wouldn't it, 
mother ? 

Mrs. K. Yes, dear. {To Bob, quietly.) We call her 
eighteen, Mr. Braxton. 

Bob. I guess that's official, Mrs. Kingman. You'd hardly 
be likely to call her any older, or younger, than she really is. 

Bess. Now, sir, your somewhat exceptional curiosity being 
satisfied, I move the cake be cut. \^Exit Mrs. K., r. 

Har. Here, too. Out with 'em. 

{He and Bob blow out the candles.) 

Pet. Here goes, then. {Cuts cake.) And now, to know 
your fates. {She serves each one a section.) Now, you first, 
Mr. James. 

Har. All right ; might as well know the worst {dividing 
cake) as to live in suspense. {He fl?ids a ring which he holds 
aloft.) Hurrah ! Look what's here. 

Pet. Ha, ha ! Do you know what it signifies ? 

Har. No ; kindly relieve my anxiety, won't you ? It's 
awful. 

Pet. You'll find the reality more awful still. 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 25 

Har. Why? 

Pet. Because it means that you are going to be married 
within a year. 

{All laugh.) 

Har. (in mock dismay). Oh, cruel fate, that means good- 
bye to my legal aspirations, Bob. 

Bob. Tough luck, old man. Ha, ha ! 
Pet. Your turn, Bess. 

(Bess, divides cake. Holds up a thimble.') 

Bess, {dolefully). Just what I expected, a thimble. Going 
to be an old maid. I'll speak to Mandy Libby right away 
about taking me into partnership in her dressmaking emporium. 
{Laughter.) Now, Pet. 

Pet. No, Bess. Not until we hear from Mr. Braxton. 

Bob. My turn ? All right. I wonder {dividing cake) what 
the prize {Finds nothing.) Why, how's this? Nothing. 

{Looks rather blank.) 

Har. That's just a reflection of that expression on your 
face, Bob. 

Bob. I bite ; what's the answer ? 

Har. a perfect blank. {Laughter.) Now, Miss King- 
man. 

Bob. Well, there's one comfort, Harry, I have the best of 
you, as there will be nothing to interfere with my stern pursuit 
of a medical education. 

Pet. {dividing cake). Oh, look ! {Holds up a coin.) A 
coin. 

Bess. Pet, you are going to be rich. 

Har. Congratulations. 

Pet. Thank you, but as my acquaintance with fairies ter- 
minated a good many years ago, I think I will try to go on 
being content with my humble lot. {Laughter.) 

Bob. *' You never can tell." 

Har. " Stranger things have happened." 

Pet. Perhaps ; but not in Bay View. Now, I think 

{Starts to rise.) 
Har. Wait a minute, please. What about that toast, Bob ? 



26 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

Bob {with alacrity). Oh, yes, sure enough, the toast. 
What shall we use to wash it down ? {Looks about table.) 

Har. It doesn't matter; the sentiment's the tTimg. 

Bob. True for you, my boy. Water will have to do. 
(Fills four glasses.) Now, all up. {They stand.) Here's 
{raising glass ; all following suit) to — to the honor and health 

of our beautiful {To Pet.) Will you permit me to use 

the term. Miss Kingman ? 

Pet. {a little confused). Oh, please don't; the truth is 
much more 

Har. "The truth is mighty, and must prevail." 

Bob. Exactly. Then here's to the honor and health of our 
beautiful {bowing to Pet.) hostess, and to her eighteenth birth- 
day. May 

Har. *' She live long and prosper." 

Bob {to Har., severely). Young man, don't interrupt the 
ceremony. {To the rest.) I say, may 

Bess. " Her shadow never grow less." All drink. 

{They do so.) 

{Note. — The foregoing scene is intended to be as lively and 
as jolly as possible.) 

Enter Mrs. K., r. 

Pet. {laughing). There, I think that's about all the honor 
I can stand for one day, and 

Mrs. K. Now, if you are all through, I will clear these 
things away. 

Pet. Oh, no, you are quite mistaken, mother, you will do 
nothing of the kind. 

Mrs. K. But I 

Pet. {taki?ig her by the arm). Bess, help me with this ob- 
stinate woman, will you ? 

(Bess, takes the other arm.) 

Bess. All right. What next ? 

Mrs. K. Now, girls, you know 

Pet. Not another word. Now, Bess — to the chair with 
her. 

(They lead her to a rocker by the fireplace ^ Mrs. K. laugh- 
ing and protesting. Har. brings a footstool.) 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 27 



Mrs. K. Girls, girls, I do declare 



Pet. {shaking her faiger at her). Now, madam, you are 
sentenced to remain in this chair and work while we clear the 
things away. Which shall it be, sewing or knitting ? 

Mrs. K. Knitting, I guess, if I must submit. 

Bob (Jjrifiging kfiitting work from sofa). Here's the 
paraphernalia. 

Mrs. K. Thank you, I feel like a real lady. 

Pet. I'd Hke to know why you shouldn't? That's just 
what you are. (Kisses her.) 

Bess. So she is. (Mrs. K. smiles ; knits.) Now, Pet, 
I am going to help. We'll get these things away in no time. 

Pet. So we will. 

{Both start to work,) 

Har. Can't I make myself useful, too? 

Bob. Here, too ? 

Bess. Sure, "the more the merrier." 

{All four take hold. Bustling action. They carry dishes 
off r. The youfig men move table back against tvall, c. 
Pet. covers it with a red cloth. Bess, places album and 
family Bible on table. Pet. brings a lanip. At the be- 
ginning of this actio7i a kfiock is heard at the door, L. 
Pet. goes and returns ushering i?t Aman. , who carries a 
small package in her hand. She crosses to Mrs. K., sits 
by her and begins to talk^ keeping it up during the ar- 
rangement of the table.) 

Pet. Come right in, Mandy, and sit with mother. You'll 
excuse us, I know, while we clear away these things. 

Aman. Of course I will. 

Mrs. K. Good-evening, Amanda ; come right over and sit 
by me. We 

Aman. Good-evenin', Mis' Kingman, good-evenin', every- 
body. {She nods to each in turn.) Good land ! I just {sit- 
ting dowfi) wish I had somebody to help me with my dishes once 
in a while like you have. Mis' Kingman ; not that there is so 
many of them considerin' that I always eat alone, but it gets 
tiresome, you know, once in a while, the same thing over, and 
over, and over again j not that I'm lazy — nobody can say that 
about me. I may have my faults, but that ain't among 'em, 
thank the Lord, but when you come to do the same things and 



28 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

handle the same old dishes over year after year as I've done for 
the last fort — ahem — for as long as I've done, I tlynk you have 
a right to complain a little bit, seein's it don't do anybody 
else any harm and makes you feel some better when you get 
through, and as far as that goes 

Mrs. K. Yes, I know it does do a person a little good now 
an' 

Aman. To be sure it does, Mrs. Kingman. It's my opin- 
ion that everybody needs something like one o' these things 
you see on top o' the railroad engines — that thing, you know, 
that when the steam gets too — oh, yes, a safety valve — when 
the steam pressure gets too high, you know, it just goes pop ! 
the steam blows off for a few minnits, and then everything 
goes along quiet and peaceable for a while. That's th' way it 
is with me, I guess; though, goodness knows, I never talk 
much about it or anything else for that matter 

Pet. Won't you take your things off, Mandy? 

Aman. No, thank you. Pet. I can't stay but a few minnits. 
I heard it was your birthday, so I just run in to wish you good 
luck and to (jmdoing package') bring you this little gift. It 
ain't much to look at, I'm sure, but (^holding up a pijicushioti) 
I know you'll find it useful, especially 

Pet. a pincushion ? {Takes it.) How lovely of you ! I 
am sure that I 

Aman. Yes, and I stuck it full, as I had quite a lot layin' 
around I had no use for, so you won't need to bring any home 
from th' store for a good spell, I guess, unless 

(^The cushion amuses the rest. Bess, and Har, have been 
talking aside.) 

Bess. Will you excuse me for a few moments, Pet ? I want 
to run down to the post-office and see if there is anything from 
pa. I haven't heard a word from him for an age. 

{She starts l., YIayl. folio7mng.) 

Pet. Of course I will. Run along, but come back as soon 
as you can. {In pretended surprise.) What ! Are you going 
too, Mr. James? 

Har. {hesitating). Y-es, I thought perhaps there might be 
something for — I mean — may I, Miss Stubbs ? 

Bess, {a little confused). I — I — think so, yes. 

Har. {gayly). All right, come on. I think I can find my 
hat somewhere out in the [^They exeunt at L. 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 2() 

Aman. (rising). This won't do for me. I must be goin*. 
Mrs. K. (also rising). Won't you come into the other 
room first, Amanda ? I think I have something for you. 
Aman. Thanks, Mrs. Kingman, just for a minnit. 

[^Exeunt both, R. 
Pet. (to Bob). That's mother for you. 1 know she wants 
to give Mandy some cake, but her main idea is to get at those 
dishes. 

Enter Jabez, l. 

Jabez. Well, Pet, how did the birthday celebration come 
off? 

Pet. (kissing him). Splendid, daddy. It was so good of 
you to stay at the store this afternoon all by yourself. 

Jabez. Not quite \ I had Lem, you know. 

Pet. Lem ? Poor old fellow. 

Jabez. Glad to see you, Mr. Braxton. (Shakes hands.) 
Did they give you enough to eat ? 

Bob (laughing). Yes, sir, almost too much. I suppose you 
have put in a pretty busy day at the store ? 

Jabez. Oh, no, not very. (Sighs.) Where is mother, Pet ? 

Pet. (looking anxiously at hint). She is in the other room, 
daddy. Mandy Libby is with her. 

Jabez. I want to see her a moment. (Crosses and exit, r.) 

Bob. Will you excuse me just a moment? There is some- 
thing out in the hall I have just 

Pet. (a little curiously). Certainly, if you wish. 

(Bob hurries off r. j returns at oftce with a lo7ig box which 
he places in Pet.'s hands.) 

Bob. For you, with my 

Pet. (surprised and pleased). Forme? Oh, what is it? 
Bob. Open it and see. 

{She does so.) 

Pet. Oh ! How lovely ! (Lifts out a very choice selection 
of flowers.) Aren't they beautiful ? And so kind of you, 
Mr. Braxton. (Smells and admires them.) I must put them 
in water at once if you will excuse me just a second. 

(Runs off R.) 



30 

Bob {looking after her). What a dear girl she is. I wonder 
if she knows how much I have grown to love her during this 
past summer? {Turns to table. Looks at album.) 

Reenter Pet. with the flowers in a vase. She places them on 
the tab ley giving them a touch here and there. 

Pet. There ! {Surveys her work.) Don't you think they 
are beautiful, Mr. Braxton ? 

Bob. I do, and I am so glad you Hke them. 

Pet. I cannot tell you how much. {She drops into a chair 
beside table, her eyes still fixed on the flowers.) Flowers are 
such a delight to me. 

(Bob drops into a chair near her.) 

Bob. It is only a slight, a very slight expression of my ap- 
preciation of the many delightful days I have spent with you, 
and with your people during the past three months. You 
know I only put into Bay View for a few hours that eventful 
day of the robbery {smiling), and here I have been running in 
here nearly every week since. 

Pet. {innocently). I have often wondered why you did. 
There are so many more attractive places up and down the 
coast. 

Bob. That is true, but they do not hold the same attraction 
for me that 1 find in Bay View. 

Pet. That seems strange. 

Bob {inusingly). Perhaps so, in a way. {He seems ab- 
s orbed in thought for a moment.) 1 wish you could read my 
thoughts. You could then understand me so much better than 
you can by what I am going to try to say. Words are so 
futile. When I first visited Bay View, three months ago, I 
had started out with Harry James on what we had both de- 
cided should be our final outing before we settled down to the 
real business of life — he to go in for the law, and I to take up 
the study of medicine. I suppose neither of us needs to do this ; 
our people are wealthy, and we have always been provided 
with everything which goes with that condition ; but the life to 
which wealth tends is one which appeals to neither of us. We 
promised each other when we left college that we would not 
depend on others, but would make our own way in the world. 
Our vacation will now soon come to an end, and I suppose we 
shall then be leaving Bay View for good. {Si^hs.) 

Pet. {betraying efnotioft). For good ? Oh ! 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 3 1 

Bob {earnestly). Yes, unless — speaking now only for my- 
self — unless you say that some day I may return. 

Pet. {looking dowfi). I — I hardly understand you, Mr. 

Bob. I did not expect to tell you this just now, but I can- 
not hold it back. Can you not see what has kept me here ? — 
Why I tell you this? — Do you not understand that I love you? 

Pet. Oh, please do not say any more, please 

Why not, dear ? This declaration is honorable, sin- 

I know — I am sure it is, but 




I had hoped, thought that you had also learned to 



Pet. Oh, I have, I do, but I must not think of my own 
happiness. I know there is trouble ahead for daddy and 
mother. The business — they are going to need my love, all of 
it, and my service. I cannot tell you all now, but you say you 
love me, and I am glad, glad, but if you do, won't you show 
it by saying nothing more until — until I release you from the 
promise I feel that you will give me ? 

Bob. It shall be as you wish, dear. I will promise, but 
may I not *'hope" ? 

Pet. Yes. {Both rise. She gives him her hand.') It would 
be cruel to deny that to you, and to me. 

Enter Jabez, Mrs. K. and Aman. , r. The latter has a package 
in her hand. She crosses to the table. Pet. shows her 
the flowers and with Bob they admire them, while Jabez 
and his wife, who have remaified at r., converse together 
aside. 

Mrs. K. Why do you seem so much more worried than 
usual to-night, Jabez ? Is there anything more than I know ? 

Jabez. Only that I have had another notice from the bank 
in regard to the note. I cannot ask Captain Stubbs for any 
more assistance, for I know how much he is able to do, and 
that he has done already. I would not ask him for any further 
help ; it would not be right. 

Mrs. K. I know, but we can hope. Won't you try to do 
that, dear? 

Jabez. Yes, I will try. 

Enter Har. ^//^Bess., l. Har. has a box. 
Bess. Did you ever hear of such a father as mine ? Here 



32 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

he has gone off on a trip, for what he would not tell me, not a 
word. I get a card from him from Baltimore, then another 
from New York, then one from Washington, but ncft a sign of a 
letter from anywhere. I'm so provoked with him that when 
he comes back, if he ever does, I won't speak to him. He'll see. 

(Alllaugh.') 

Bob. What a tornado ! Why, Lem's hurricane isn't a patch 
to it. 

Har. If Miss Bessie didn't get anything, I did — by ex- 
press. It should have arrived this morning, but "better late 
than never." {Hands box to Pet.) Miss Kingman, with 
kindest regards from your most humble. (^Bows.) 

Pet. Another surprise? How delightful! {Opens box. 
It co7itains some choice cofifectionery.') Oh, look, everybody. 
I hardly know how to thank you, Mr. James. I am so over- 
whelmed with emotion. 

(All laugh. She passes the box around.) 

Aman. {takifig a piece'). Any one might know, to look at 
it, that it didn't come from Pease's drug store. If they should 
try to sell anything down there besides peppermint drops and 
lozenger rolls the folks in Bay View would all die of heart failure. 

{Laughter. Knock at L. Jabez goes off^ L.) 

Bess, {pouting). Pet, I might as well tell you why I am 
so provoked with that provoking father of mine. I was ex- 
pecting a little package from him to-day containing something 
for your birthday, but it didn't come. Do you wonder I 
am 

Pet. (puttiftg ar77t around Bess.). Nevermind, dear; it 
will be just as acceptable when it does come, I am sure. 

Enter Jabez, l. He ushers in Sim and Ezra. Both come 
in bowings each carrying a package. 

Sim. Good- evenin', folks. I jest thought 

Ezra. How d'ye do ? I heerd that 

Sim {a little testily). One 'ta time, Ez. 



Ezra {tartly). Keep still, then, an' let me 

Sim. Humph ! Ef I waited 'til you got through 

Pet. {stepping into the breach). We are so glad to see you 
both, I am sure. Won't you allow me to take your hats ? 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 33 

Sim. Not mine. I'll jest keep it on, then ef anythin' hap- 
pens out front, ye know 

Ezra. Yes, if anythin' happens out front, Sim'U be able t' 
run out th' back door without goin' bareheaded. 

{All laugh but Sim.) 

Sim. Hey, do ye mean Oh, shucks ! (To the rest.) 

He ain't wuth wastin' time on. (To Pet.) I heerd as how 
'twas your birthday, so I jest stopped inter th' fish store as I 
come along, an' brought ye these. (Holds out package.) 
Also wishin' ye many happy returns o' th' day. (Bows.) 

Pet. (taking package). How kind of you, Mr. Freeman, to 
remember me. Thank you ever so much. (Ope?is package, 
and holds up two lobsters.) How very nice ! 

(She tries not to laugh. The boys laugh aside,) 

Ezra. And I brung ye these from down t' Pease's (handing 
small package)^ wishin' ye good luck. 

Pet. How good you all are to me to-day. I wish I de- 
served it. (She opens package. It contains some peppermint 
drops.) Peppermints. I know they will taste good. 

Ezra. You bet ye. / like 'em fust rate. 

Pet. Won't you have some, Ezra ? 

Ezra (taking a handful). Don't keer ef I do. 

(During the above, Capt. enters quietly at L. He is an un* 
observed spectator of part of scene.) 

Capt. Hullo ! What are ye havin', Jabez, a reception? 

(Stniles. All turn in surprise. Bess, runs across and 
throws herself ifito his artns.) 

Bess. You dear provoking old thing. Where did you 
come from ? And when did you come from there ? 

Capt. Came on the express half an hour ago. Didn't find 
you home, so I came 'round here. Knew ye'd be here if ye 
wasn't there. Now if ye'll be satisfied with that, I'll say how 
d'ye do to th' rest o' th' folks. (He slips a package into her 
hand in view of audience, but not of the rest. Shakes hands 
with Jabez and wife. Those who have no lines will fill in 
with any suitable byplay, conversi?ig, etc.) How are ye, 
Jabez? How de do, Mrs. Kingman, an' everybody else? 
Pet, Bess wrote me that it was your birthday, so when I was 



9^ PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

comin' through New York I picked up this {taking packet frotn 
pocket) little trinket. I ain't much for buyin' such gewgaws, 
but I hope ye' 11 like it. (Gives it.') 

Pet. Captain Stubbs, how can I-— I {Opens box. 

Lifts out neckchaifi.) How beautiful ! 

Bess. And here is mine, too, Pet, at last. 

{Another packet.) 

Pet. Oh, this is too much. (// is a ring.) Why — why 
are you all so good to me ? 

(She sinks into a chair ^ c, somewhat overcome with emotion. 
Lem appears at entrance^ L. He also has a package.) 

Lem. He, he ! 

(Pet. rises, crosses l., and takes Lem by hand.) 

Pet. And you, too, Lem ? Come right in. 
Lem (handing her the package). I — I — I b-b-brought ye 
th-th-this. 

Pet. Oh, dear, my gratitude is 

(Opens package and draws out a corn-popper. All laugh.) 

Lem (taking Pet. aside). He, he, he! (Much tickled.) 
I th-th-th-thought a-a-a-as h-h-h-how ye c-c-c-could h-h-hang 
it up s-s-s-somewh-wh-where, an' wh-when s-some o' th-these 
young f-f-fellers c-come 'round an' s-s-saw it, it m-might 
r-r-remind 'em t-t-t' p-p-pop th He, he ! 

(Toddles off again, L.) 

Sim. Guess mebby it's time I was takin' a turn 'round th* 
common t' see if every thin' s quiet an' orderly, ye know. 

(Capt. smiles. Aman. edges over toward Ezra.) 

Ezra. I'd better be goin' along o' Sim, I reckon, in case 
he should git some desp'rate charackters on his hook an' need 
my help. 

(Ezra winks at the rest.) 

Sim. Huh! Your help? Ef you'd help yourself a leetle 
more'n you're accustomed to, you'd do more real good t' th' 
community than you would by blowin' about helpin' folks that 
don't need it. 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 35 

Aman. Good-night, all. It's time I was goin' too, I think. 
Are you goin' my way, Ezra ? 

Ezra. No, Mandy, guess not. I'm goin' down by th' 
depot. 

Aman. So am I. I'm kinder lookin' for a box from 

Capt. Say, Sim, you an' Ez had better keep your eyes 
peeled for "burglars.." Here's these two desperadoes still 
runnin' 'round at large. (Points at the boys^ who laugh.') 

Sim. H'm ! You can joke about it all you want to, Cap'n 
Stubbs, but {looking suspiciously at the boys) I ain't so sure 
but what 

Capt. It seems t' me, Sims, after it had been proved that 
there wasn't anything stole, and that these boys were miles 
away from Bay View that night, that if I was you I'd shake 
hands with them and own up that I'd made a fool of myself. 

Sim. Well, it jest happens that you ain't me. 

Bob. We do not want any apology. Captain. Mistakes 
will happen. We would like very much to have everything 
friendly all around. Won't you shake hands, Mr. Freeman ? 

(^Offers to do so.) 

Sim. No, not yit. It wasn't proved t' my satisfaction, any- 
way, an' I'm a-goin' t' keep on lookin' for clues. 
Ezra. That's th' talk, Sim. I'm with ye. 

(^Exeunt Sim, Ezra and Aman., l., Jabez with them.) 

Har. (Jaughifig). '*A man convinced against his will is 
of the same opinion still." 

Capt. Sim's as stubborn as they make 'em. Mr. Braxton, 
I saw your father and mother while I was away ; was at your 
house. 

Bob. Did you ? How were they ? 

Capt. Fine. (Slyly.) They both asked about you and 
wanted to know if you had decided to become a permanent 
resident of Bay View. 

Bob. Oh, no, not quite yet, but you know this port is so 
handy to run in and out of, and — (Bess, and Har. exeunt, r., 
followed by Pet. ) and — there are other reasons why I 

Capt. I see. The scenery now, I s'pose, and other attrac- 
tions. 

Bob {confused). Y-Yes, I think so. {Looks around^ 
Where did they {Laughter heard off r. ) Oh ! 

(^He runs off after the others,) 



^6 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

Capt. Ha, ha ! We were young ourselves, Mrs. Kingman, 
once upon a time. {He sits by table ^ Mrs. K. by fireplace.) 
How's Jabez makin' out now ? Business pickin' up»any ? 

Mrs. K. No, Captain ; and to tell the truth, he seems 
much worried lately. 

Capt. H'm ! (Seems lost in thought.) I s'pose 'tis a little 
dull, but I wouldn't think too much about it if I was you an' 
Jabez. You know it's a pretty lengthy lane that don't have a 
corner in it somewhere. Things may improve; you can't tell. 

Mrs. K. {sighing). I am sure I hope they may. 

Enter Jabez, l. He takes floor to and fro as they talk. 

Jabez. Have a nice trip, Captain Stubbs ? 

Capt. Oh, yes, in a way. How's business, Jabez? 

Jabez. Getting worse, if anything. The present outlook is 
anything but encouraging to me. 

Capt. Well, I wouldn't let it worry me too much. As I 
was just sayin' to your wife, th' longest road has a bend in it, 
an' it may be so in your case. (Jabez shakes his head doubt- 
fully.) By the way, this is Pet's birthday — the eighteenth, 
isn't it? 

Jabez. Yes, that is, we 

Capt. And have you You remember this was the 

time on which you had decided to 

Mrs. K. Oh, not yet, not yet, Captain Stubbs. I cannot 
seem to bring my mind to it, it is so hard for me. 

Capt. I realize that, but the longer you put it off the 
harder it's goin' t' be. It is none of my business, not exactly, 
at any rate, but if I was you I'd 

Mrs. K. You have a right to be interested, a right to ad- 
vise in our affairs, for you have been very kind to us, and I 
know that you are right, still 

Enter ffro7n r., the four young people ; they are laughing and 
chatting. 

Bess. Yes, I must. Pet. I have so much to do at home. 

(Crosses "L.^ followed by Har.) 

Capt. Goin' home, Bess ? (^Winks afBoB.) Wait a min- 
ute an' I'll go along with you. 

(Har. steps back^ disappointed,) 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 37 

Bess. All right, daddy, but (A/so disappointed.) 

Capt. Eh? But what? 

Bess, (confused). Oh, nothing. 

Capt. {eiijoying the situation). Mebby you'd better run 
along, though. Come t' think of it, 1 have an errand down the 
other way. 

Har. (brightening). I'll see her home, Captain. Going, 
Bob? 

Bob. Yes, but not your way. Good-night, all. 

Mps. K. Good-night, Mr. Braxton. Pet, when you return 
I think you had better light the lamp ; it is growing a little 
dark. 

{Lights to he dimmed somewhat at this point.) 

Pet. Very well, mother. 

{^Exeunt Bess, and Har. , l. Then Pet. and Bob. 

Jabez (looking after Pet.). Eighteen years; it is a long 
time. Captain Stubbs. I wonder if these years would have 
been as happy if 

Mrs. K. How can you say that, Jabez? You know very 
well how desolate both our hearts 

Reenter Pet. She lights the table lamp. The reinainder of 
tliis act should be in the lai7ip-light and firelight. If a 
fireplace is ?iot practicable^ Mrs. K. and Pet. may con- 
clude scene sittitig under the lainp-Ught. 

Capt. (looking at the flowers). Where'd th' pretty posies 
come from. Pet? Didn't know they raised anything like that 
around these parts. 

Pet. (evasively). They were a birthday gift, Captain. 
Aren't they lovely ? 

Capt. H'm, yes. Grand t' look at, but I don't b'lieve 
they'd be so good t* eat, now, as them peppermint drops that 
Ez Green brought ye. There's a feller for ye. Pet (chucking 
her under the chin), who knows what's what. An' if you don't 
watch out pretty sharp Mandy Libby'U be takin' him right out 
from under your very nose. ( Winks at Jabez.) Don't ye go 
t' takin' any chances. Available young fellers like Ez ain't so 
plentiful 'round Bay View that ye can afford t' let such a likely 
one slip through your fingers. 

Pet. (amused). Thank you for your kind advice. I'll 
think it over. 



38 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

Capt. That's right, only let me know about the weddin' in 
time to get measured for a suitable suit. Ha, ha ! J^Goes L.) 
Good-night, all. 

Jabez. Hold on a bit. I'll walk a little ways with you. 
{To Mrs. K.) I'm going down to the store for an hour or so, 
mother. Don't you sit up for me. 

Mrs. K. I think I shall, but you will find the front door 
unlocked if I do not. Good-night, Captain. 

\^Exeunt Capt. and Jabez, l. 

(Pet. remains by table admirmg her gifts. Mrs. K. sits by 
fireplace knitting.) 

Pet. Mother, what a lovely birthday I have had, and how 
good every one has been to me. {Tries on ring and admires 
it.) Even Mr. Freeman. I thought I would die with laughter 
when I saw what he had brought. 

Mrs. K. {smiling). Sim's present was not what might be 
termed elegant exactly, but it will serve a very useful purpose. 

Pet. Oh, yes, no doubt. {Tries on necklace.) And poor 
old Lem. How funny 1 Ha, ha ! {Aside.) And what an ab- 
surd speech. {Smiles.) 

Mrs. K. It does not seem strange to me that they should 
want to make your birthday a happy one, for I'll venture to say 
that there is not one of them who cannot recall some kind act 
which you have done for them at one time or another during 
your life. 

Pet. Do you think so, mother? If you do, you must 
surely know that {selecting a flower from bouquet) all the 
credit for any goodness I may possess — and I think you make 
too much of the little there is — is due to your own teaching and 
example. But that was a very pretty speech you made, and I 
am going to reward you by giving you a decoration of the order 
of flatterers. Hold up your head. {She places the floiver in 
her mother' s hair and retreats a step or two to observe the 
effect.) There ! Now you look beautiful. 

Mrs. K. {smiling). Who is the flatterer now? I think it 
would look much better above a younger and fairer face than 
that of your old mother. 

Pet. Never ! ( Throws herself on a footstool at her mother's 
feet.) There may be younger faces, but not one in the whole 
wide world one-half so sweet to me. 

Mrs. K. I am so glad you think so. {Thinks ») I wonder 
if you would though, if— 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 39 

{Soft viusic through the rest of the scene until curtain.) 

Y-sm. {looking up). "If"? If what, mother? (Mrs. K. ^^^^ 
not reply.) Why is it you sometimes speak to me in such a 
peculiar way, as though there were something you were con- 
cealing from me ? There have been so many things like that 
remark you just made which I have noticed, but of which I 
have never spoken, things which you have said to, or about, 
me in an unguarded moment. Can't you tell me what they 
mean ? Mother, why is my birth date not in the Bible like 
that of the little girl you lost before I came ? And why, when 
you were asked my age to-day, did you answer in such a 
strange manner, saying, '' We call her eighteen " ? 

Mrs. K. My child, it was because your true age is not 
known to us. 

Pet. {in wonderme?it). Not known? Surely that can- 
not 

Mrs. K. Listen, dear. The time has come when you must 
know all that we do. It is your right to know, and it is our 
duty to tell you. I cannot say how much I have dreaded this 
hour, but Jabez and I decided long ago that when you were 
eighteen you should know all. And if afterward you can still 
call me mother, and tell me that your love is unchanged, my 
heart will be relieved of a burden it has borne for long, long 
years. 

Pet. I — I do not understand. 

Mrs. K. I can give you only the merest outline of what I 
would say just now, but later I will give it all to you in full, 
and this is the story, your story. (Pet. sits with her cheek on 
her mother'' s knee, a?id looks ifito the fire as she listens intensely.') 
When Jabez and I were married, he was the keeper of a light- 
house on a lonely island far off from the coast. He took me 
there with him and we two were the only inhabitants of the 
place. The only people whom we saw for years were the men 
who were in the service and who brought us our supplies once 
a quarter. After a time a little girl came to gladden our hearts 
and our home. We idolized her, and she was the joy of our 
lives for two short years, and then — she died. {Pause.) Our 
hearts were broken, our home desolate, and for a time Jabez 
was fearful that I would lose my reason. It was just a few 
weeks after our loss, one morning after a storm, when Jabez 
was going up into the lighthouse tower, that he saw, drifting on 
the sea, not far from shore, a boat, one of the kind we speak 



40 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

of as a dory. He came down and put off in his sailboat, se- 
cured the little craft, and in the bottom of it, nearly dead from 
exposure to the storm, was a dear little giri about the age of 
our lost darling. He brought her to me and we worked over 
her and brought her back to life, and took her to our two hun- 
gry hearts. 

Pet. Oh, mother, and that little girl 

Mrs. K. Was you. At first we thought we would try to 
find out where she came from, but time passed, and as we came 
to love her more and more, we could not face the possible part- 
ing which this knowledge might bring. It was wrong, we 
knew, but our loss and our lonely life was our only excuse. 
We named the child Petrel, after the sea bird that breasts the 
ocean's storm, because it was out of the storm that she came to 
us. When she had been with us for ten years Jabez inherited 
a small legacy, and we left the island gladly and came to this 
place where we were not known, and where Jabez opened the 
store. The rest you 

Pet. Dear mother, this explains so many, many things. 
And does no one in this place know of this but just you and 
father ? 

Mrs. K. Only Captain Stubbs, our nearest and best friend. 
And yes, one other, perhaps, Ezra Green. He once overheard 
something which passed between your father and the Captain, 
how much we never knew, and for some reason Ezra has always 
kept the secret, for which we are very grateful to him. And 
now, dear, you know all. {Puts her ha?id on Pet.'s head.') 
How shall it be, my child ? Can you still love us, or do we 
stand condemned in your 

(Pet. rises and throws herself into her mother's arms.) 

Pet. Don't — don't say anything more like that. You are 
my own dear mother. You and father saved me, sheltered me, 
loved me, and as long as I live I shall be what you have always 
called me — your child, your very own. Oh, mother ! 

{They cling to one another as the curtain slowly descends.) 
CURTAIN 



ACT III 

An interval of one week has elapsed since last act. 

SCENE.— T*)^^ same as in Act II, 

(At curtain rise Jabez and Capt. are discovered seated at 
table f B. c, looking over some papers. Both appear 
somewhat concerned,) 

Capt. (Jwlding up a paper). I see, Jabez, that this note 
will be due to-morrow. Have you asked Peckham for any 
further time on it ? 

Jabez. Yes, but you see it has been extended once, and 
Peckham told me this morning that it might be possible for him 
to hold off another week, which was the best he could do. 
Might not even be able to do that. He says the law is pretty 
strict, and while he would be willing to do all he could to ac- 
commodate me, he has to conform to the banking laws. 

Capt. (jnusingly). I see. If we only had another month 
now, something might possibly be 

Jabez. No, you are wrong, Captain. (Rises and paces 
floor.) Another month would make no difference, and I am 
weary of trying to delay the inevitable. Delay will not help, 
so why try to put the evil day any further off when the case is 
hopeless, hopeless? 

(Capt. remains absorbed in thought. A knock is heard off 
L, Enter Mrs. K., r.) 

Mrs. K. Did some one knock, Jabez ? 

Jabez. Didn't hear any one. (Kfiock repeated.) 

Mrs. K. I'll go. 

(Exit, L. She returfis ushering in Ezra, who has an envelope 
in his hand.) 

Ezra. Cap'n Stubbs here? Oh, yes. Here, Cap'n, here's 
a telegraph for you. (Capt. Jumps up quickly.) I wus jest 
a-lookin' int' th' ticket winder down t' th* deepo an' Brad 
Nickerson, th' agent, ast me ef I'd find you an' gin it 

Capt. Let's have it, Ez. 

41 



42 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

(Takes telegram. Opens and reads it. Ezra tries to get a 
look at it also, but is thwarted by Capt., who betrays sur- 
prise and delight at what he reads. This emotion, how- 
ever, is quickly suppressed.) 

Jabez {anxiously). No bad news, I hope, Captain Stubbs ? 

Capt. Ahem ! No, no, Jabez, nothing of the kind. {Puts 
the paper in his pocket.) Just a little private business of my 
own. {Cheerfully.) Do you know, I think I'll go down and 
have a talk with Peckham myself. We've always been pretty 
good friends, and I may be able to 

Ezra. Guess I'll go along, too. I'm 

Capt. {none too well pleased). Humph, I don't know but 
I'd just as soon go alone, Ez, if you don't mind. 

Ezra. All right, don't make no difference t' me's I know 
on ; but say, I on'y jest got back from a fishin' trip this mornin', 
so I on'y jest heerd about poor ole Lem Gale. It went purty 
suddent with th* ole man, didn't it? 

Jabez. Yes, it did, Ez [shaking his head), but it was bet- 
ter for him. We miss him around the store more than I had 
any idea of. (Sighs.) Well, his troubles are over at any 
rate. 

Ezra. I s'pose so. (Inquisitively.) Say, did ye hear 
whether he had any ? 

£7tterAMAN., l., hurriedly. She is all out of breath. Enter 
Pet., r. 

Aman. Oh, Jabez ! {A breath.) Mis' Kingman ! (A 
breath.) Cap'n Stubbs ! (Another breath.) What do you 
think ? I declare ! I'm so beat out a-runnin' up here that I 
can hardly ketch my breath. 

Pet. {drawifig chair c. ). Have a chair, Mandy. You look 
as though you needed it. 

Aman. Thank you. {Sits.) I've got so much to tell you 
I hardly know where to begin first. {Tries to get her breath.) 

Mrs. K. Take your time, Amanda ; there's no hurry. 

Capt. What's the matter now, Mandy? Wreck on th' rail- 
road? Run out o' pins, or what? {Laughs.) 

Aman. Gracious, no; but I had a letter this mornin' from 
Lawyer Pratt, wantin' me to come down to his office as soon as 
I could, so 1 dropped the work I was doin', put on my things 
an' started, all the time a-wonderin' what on earth a lawyer 
would be a-wantin' of me, knowin' I didn't owe nobody a cent. 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 43 

Well, when I got down there, what do you think he told me ? 
{Looks inquiringly at the rest, who shake thdr heads.) Of 
course you'd never guess, never. He told me that poor old 
Lem Gale had made a will, it had been found, and he had 
left all his money to me. 

Capt. Sho, Mandy, you don't say so ? 

Ezra. Huh ! a likely story. Lem didn't hev enny money 
t* leave. 

Aman. That's the strangest part of it. He did. They 
found it. They found the will first, then they couldn't find 
the money. But Lawyer Pratt and some more rummaged 
'round till they found a paper Lem had left, one he'd 
wrote. You know he could write a good deal better' n he 
could talk. 

Jabez. Yes, Mandy, that's quite true. 

Aman. Well, the paper said Lem had three thousand dol- 
lars which was given to him by somebody. I don't know who. 

Capt. (Jookitig at Jabez). Just as we always thought, Jabez. 
The man he saved. 

(Jabez nods.) 

Aman. But not wantin' anybody to know about it, Lem 
had put the money in the bank himself, at night, crawled 
through a winder, pried up a board in the floor, and hid it. 
And that night the bank was broken into it was only poor old 
Lem, who had been there to see if his money was all safe, and 
had been scared away somehow and run off an' left the winder 
open. 

Capt. Well, well, well ! 

Ezra {eagerly). Did they find it? 

Aman. Yes. They went there, pried the board up and 
there 'twas, just as he had said. And it's in the right part of 
the bank now, in my name. (Shows ba?ik book.) Isn't it just 
like a fairy story ? 

Ezra {excitedly). Lemme see it, Mandy. {She shows him 
the book, ivhich he scans etiviously, ) Gosh ! What luck ! 
Wonder what he gin it t' yew for ? 

Mrs. K. I do not wonder at all. Every one in Bay View 
knows how good Amanda always was to Lem. 

Aman. {thoughtfully). Oh, I don't think I ever did so very 
much. I sort of felt sorry for him, situated the way he was. 
{Rises.) But I must go. I've got a lot of work promised for 
to-day. I couldn't go home, though, till I'd run in to tell you 



44 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

about it before anybody else did. I s'pose it's known all over 
town by this time. (^Goes l.) ^ 

Ezra (with a new interest^. Which way be ye goin', 
Mandy? I'll go along with ye. 

Aman. (jyffishly). Oh, I don't know. Home, I guess. 
Why? 

Ezra. That's jest on my way. I was 

Aman. Come to think of it, I think I'll go 'round by the 
drug store. 

Ezra. That's jest as near fer me. I was a-wantin' t' go 
inter Pease's, ennyway. 

Aman. (pleased). Come along, then. My! I'm so ex- 
cited. Mis' Kingman, I don't know whether I'm awake or 
asleep. 

Capt. You're awake, all right, Mandy. Never knew you 
when you wasn't. (Laughs.) 

Ezra. That's jest what I alius said, Cap'n Stubbs. Ain't 
that right? (Looks at Aman. adiniri7igly .) 

Capt. (doubtfully'). Well, mebby, Ez, mebby. 

Aman. (laughing). Oh, you men. But I've no time to 
waste listenin' to compliments, whether they're deserved or 
not. So if you are going along with me, Ezra Green, you'll 
have to be steppin' lively. 

Ezra (jtmipitig to her side). That's me, Mandy; yew 
bet ye. [Exeufit both, L. 

Capt. Ha, ha, ha ! Say, folks, I've often heard tell that 
"money makes th' mare go," but I'll be switched if I ever 
saw it work as quick at makin' anything move as it has in Ez 
Green's case. 

(All laugh.) 

Pet. I do hope Mandy won't make any mistake. She is 
too good a woman to throw herself away. 

Mrs. K. Don't worry about Amanda, my dear. She'll not 
make any mistake. She's a good business woman, and if she 
should take up with Ezra Green she'll make him into a pretty 
decent kind of a man after all. 

Capt. I snum ! I believe you're right, Mrs. Kingman. 
There's good stuff in Ez, if anybody could only dig down deep 
enough to find it. However, this won't do for me, Jabez. 
I'm goin' down t' see Peckham. (Takes Jabez's hand.) I 
don't know what he'll have t' say, of course, but I'll say this : 
Don't you good people go t' broodin' over this store business; 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 45 

let things drift a bit. There ain't nothin' like scuddin* afore 
th' wind sometimes when th' weather's a leetle squally. 
(Laughs.) And you can trust me t' do all I can t' help ye 
keep your craft right side up. 

Jabez. I know we can, Captain Stubbs. You are a true 
friend, if there ever was one on God's earth. 

Capt. Good-day, all. 

(They respond. Exit Capt., l.) 

Pet. {looking after him). What a man he is ; so strong, so 
helpful. . ^ 

Jabez (ivith a sigh). Yes, my dear, he cannot be praised 
enough. Still, there is a limit beyond which the best heart and 
the staunchest friendship may not pass. We owe him much ; 
very much more than we shall ever be able to repay, I fear. 

Pet. (taking his arm). Father, I do not know why it is, 
but somehow 1 cannot seem to share your despondency. Let 
us all take hope and look for the silver lining in the cloud 
which is hanging over us. 

Mrs. K. (taking his other arm). The dear child is right, 
Jabez. Let us try to do as she says for another day, at least. 
And now, as this is the first opportunity we have had since Pet 
has been lold the true story of her coming to us, I want you 
to go up-stairs with me while I show her the little garments in 
the old chest ; the ones which she had on when she came to us 
out of the storm. \_Exeunt all three, slowly, R. 

(Slight pause. Knock heard off i.. Pause. Knock repeated. 
Pause. Then the helmet-covered head of Sim is seen at L. 
as he squints cautiously about the room. He dodges back, 
squints in again, then he enters stealthily on tiptoe and 
peers about.) 

Sim. By gum ! Don't look's if there was ennybody t' hum. 
Somebody said as how they seen Ez Green a-comin' in here a 
leetle spell ago. (Looks cautiojisly about again.) Humph! 
Don't see him nowhere. I jest heerd about Mandy Libby's 
gittin' ail that money from ole Lem Gale. Whew ! Who'd 'a' 
thought o' his bein' sich a dummed rich man. I kinder thought 
as how Ez might like t' know about it. Mandy 's alius bin so 
kinder soft on him. He, he ! There's no knowin' what might 
happen. An' ef I wus th' fust one t' tell Ez, there's no knowin' 
but what he mite be grateful enuf t' sheer a leetle o' his good 



46 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

fortoon with his best friend ef they should happen t' make a 
go of it. 

( Voices heard off l. Efiter Har. and Bess. They are 
laughing y and in high spirits. ) 

Bess. Why, Mr. Freeman, all alone? Where is every- 
body? 

Har. Taken a job at housekeeping, Mr. Freeman ? Ha, ha ! 

Sim (Jo Har., grumpily'). Humph ! (7> Bess.) 1 d'no, 
Miss Stubbs. I knocked a couple o' times an' couldn't raise 
nobody, so, findin' th' door open I jest walked in a minnit 
bein's I was kinder lookin' 'round fer Ez Green. Somebody 
said they seen him comin' in here. 

Har. You must have just missed him, Mr. Freeman. We 
met him a short time ago walking down the street with Miss 
Libby. 

Sim (disappointed). By th' great lobsters ! I wonder 
now 

Bess. And I suppose you have heard about Mandy's legacy, 
Mr. Freeman ? Is it not splendid ? I am so glad for her. 

Sim (a little testily). Course I heerd about it. Ain't I a offi- 
cer o' th' law? Why, I never said nothin' about it as long as 
poor ole Lem was alive, but I alius sespected that he was 

Har. (winking at Bess.). Well, I suppose you are pretty 
well convinced now that my friend Bob and myself had noth- 
ing to do with the affair at the bank that night, eh ? 

Sim (suspiciously). No, I ain't. There's some other pints 
about that business that ain't bin cleared up yit t' my satisfac- 
tion, an' when they air — mebby you an' that other galoot won't 
be s' frisky 'round th' port o' Bay View as yew hev 

Har. Oh, come on, I don't 

Ezra. Oh, come off, I dew. [Exit in a huffy L. 

(Har. and Bess, laugh.) 

Har. "There's no fool like an old fool," is there? But 
perhaps I shouldn't say that, for Mr. Freeman seems to be a 
very zealous officer, notwithstanding his absurd suspicion of 
Bob and me. Enough, however, of Mr. Simeon Freeman. 
The question before the house just now is, Is there any one in 
it ? Any remarks ? Ha, ha ! 

Bess. There must be. (Looks around; moves toward R.) 
I am going to call Pet. 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 47 

Har. (detaining her). No, no, not just yet. Perhaps she 
is out; and if she is, why then— then you couldn't see her; 
and if she should chance to be in, we don't want to see her. 
That is, not just yet. 

Bess, {astonished). Not want to see her? Of course we 
want to; that's what I came for. 

Har Oh, yes, I know {twirling his hat and seeming a lit- 
tle nervous), but you know it— it— sort of looks as though we 
were alone here, at least for a Uttle while, and so I— I thought 
perhaps it might be a good time for you— I mean for me to— 

Bess. Alone? {Looks around apprehettsively.) Oh, then 
we had better go. 

{She starts l. He detains her,) 

Har I_I— mean in the room, not in the house. Ha, ha ! 

Bess. Oh, but {Aside.) How queer he acts. I 

must 

{She tries to escape l., but Har. blocks the way.) 

Har. {desperately). You see. Miss Bessie, I want to say- 
to say— er Won't you sit down ? {Places chair C.) 

Bess. Oh, no, I 

Har. Please. 

{He is a little firm, and she yields.) 

Bess, {soniewhat mystified). But what is the meaning of all 
this, Mr. James? {Aside, rather nervous.) Oh, I wish Pet 
would come. {Makes another tmsuccessful attempt to go.) 

Har. Thank you, that is much better. The fact is, I want 

to ask— to ask you if you do not think you could— that is if you 

do not \)\\\\V— {rattled) \\im\i—{looseni7ig his collar a little) 

do not think it's— er— awfully hot to-day ? {Aside.) Whew ! 

{Takes turn across stage ; mops his face.) 

Bess, {seeing a light at last). Why, I didn't notice. Per- 
perhaps we'd better go out and {Toys with her rings.) 

Har. {returning qtcickly). Sure it's hot. {Aside.) Nmety 
in the shade. {To Bess.) But I rather like it, don't you ? 

Bess, {demurely). Oh, I don't mind it, Mr. James. At 
least it does not seem to affect me the way it does some people. 
{Laughs aside.) 



48 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

Har. (aside). H'm— wonder what she means by that? 
(TV Bess.) What was I saying? 

Bess, {laughing ifi spite of herself). I am sufe I don't 
know. Your remarks seem to be of a rather wandermg nature 
this morning. 

Har. {gelling a little more courage). Then I'll come to 
the point. What I have been trying to say is — is just this : I 
want to tell you, Miss Bessie, that I am desperately— des — 
des Oh, say, couldn't you help a fellow out a little bit? 

Bess. Help you ? How absurd ! I cannot imagine 

what you are endeavoring to ( Tartly.) And besides, I 

believe I was only invited to listen. 

Har. Oh, now, I say, don't be cruel. 

Bess. Cruel? Well— I like that. Mr. James, you will 
really {risitig) have to excuse me. 

(She starts ; he blocks the way again.) 

Har. Not until you hear me out. ( Takes both her hands.) 
Bessie, I love you— distractedly — can't you see? Didn't you 
know? 

'^YJi<&. (teasingly). You do? Well! 

Har. (blankly). Well? 

Bess. Well, what of it ? (Laughs aside.) 

Har. (stumped). " What of it " ? Why, everything of it. 
Can't you — don't you love me a little? 

Bess. Blind man, blind man. 

Har. Blind ? 

Bess. Yes, blind. (Honestly.) Haven't you seen all 
along 

Har. You don't mean (Rapturously.) Bessie ! 

(Takes her in his arms. Kisses her. During the latter 
part of this scene Capt. enters quickly, l. He stops in 
asto7iish7nent, is pleased, but assumes ster?iness as he 
speaks.) 

Capt. Here, here, what's th' meaning of this ? 
^^s>s. (screaj?iifig). Oh, daddy ! (Covers her face.) 

Har. (rattled). I— I— oh, sir, I didn't mean 

Capt. What, you didn't mean it ? Am I to understand, sir, 

that you were trifling with my daughter's affections? 

Har. No, sir, never. I love her truly, dearly, and 

Capt. Humph! You do? (TV Bess.) What have you 

to say to this, miss ? 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 49 

Bess, {recovering poise). What have /to say? (Steps to 
Har.'s sidef proudly.) I say that I am glad, glad, for I love 
him, too. 

(Har. puts arm around her. Tableau. Capt. looks at 
them a mome?it, then changes his mood. Laughs.) 

Capt. Ha, ha, ha ! Spoken like your father's own daugh- 
ter. [To Har.) Young man, I suppose you were not aware 
of the fact, but I have seen how things were drifting with you 
two young people for some little time, so when I was in New 
York I took occasion to look up your pedigree and make th' 
acquaintance of your folks, and I am mighty glad to say I 
found everything to my satisfaction, so 

Har. (eagerly). Then you are willing, Captain Stubbs. 
You consent to our 

Capt. Yes, eventually, but I guess there's no hurry about 
it. I am not at all anxious to give up my little girl yet a while, 
nor do I want her to leave the town, so I will make this condi- 
tion. I understand that you are going to be a lawyer? 

Har. Yes, sir, as soon as I can prepare myself. 

Capt. Very well, then listen. I am getting along in years, 
and, as I have said, cannot bear the idea of Bessie's leaving me 
alone. My house is large enough for us all, and all I possess 
will be hers some day. I have reason to believe that things 
will so shape themselves here in Bay View during the next few 
years that this will be a good field for a lawyer here ; perhaps 
for other professional men, too. (At this point Jabez, Mrs. 
K. and Pet. enter from r. They show sigTis of recent enio- 
tioji, and Vet. is wiping her eyes. All three pause R., somewhat 
surprised at what they hear.) Now, would you be contented 
to settle here and become a resident of the place if I give my 
consent to 

Har. (laith enthusiasm). Would I? Why — nothing would 
please me more. {To Bess.) What do you say, dear? 

Bess, {throwing herself into her father's arms impulsively). 
I say that if there is such a thing as a man-angel, my daddy is 
one. 

{All laugh.) 
Pet. {coming down). Oh, Bess, I am so glad. 

{Kisses her. The three young people retire up.) 



50 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

Jabez. This is indeed a pleasant surprise, and you have our 
most sincere good wishes, all of you. We will be glad to talk 
it over together later. Now, however, we are very Anxious to 
learn the result of your interview with Peckham. You saw 
him ? 

Capt. H'mm ! Yes, I talked the matter over with him, 
and — well, the fact is, Jabez, there's nothin' more t' be hoped 
for in that quarter. 

Jabez. It's nothing more than I expected. We are very 
grateful for all your kindness. Captain Stubbs, but it does seem 
hard, very hard. (^Qiiite downcast.) 

Mrs. K. Don't, Jabez, try to 

{A dista?it whistle is heard.) 

Capt. Hark ! {Looks at watch.) Wasn't that the down 
train? I snum, I'm late; got t' meet a party. {Goes.) Say, 
Jabez, you folks ain't goin' out anywhere, are ye ? 

Jabez (jvonderifigly). No ; why ? 

Capt. Oh, nothin' much. Might drop in again on my 
way back. Somethin' more I wanted t' say. 

Jabez. All right, I think you will find us here. {Bitterly.) 
There's little danger of our leaving the old place until we 
have to. 

{Exit J R. Capt. hurries out L. Bob enters at same time. 
They collide.) 

Capt. {jokingly). Start)oard your helm, young man ; you're 
on th' wrong tack. 

Bob {touching his hat). Aye, aye, sir; starboard 'tis. 

{All laugh. Capt. hurries off l.) 

Bob {coming over). The Captain seemed to be in a hurry ; 
acted as though all hands had been piped to plum duff, and he 
was afraid he wouldn't get his share. {Laughter.) 

Mrs. K. He was in a hurry to get to the depot. He said 
he had to see some one. {Sits r.) 

Bob. Oh, was that it? Well, he hasn't much time to 
spare; the train's just pulling in. (7<? Girls.) Good-morn- 
ing, ladies. Can you spare yon gallant cavalier for a few 
moments ? 

Pet. {quickly). I think so. Bob — I — I — mean Mr. Braxton. 

{Cofifused. Bob looks at her adoringly.) 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 5I 

Bess. I don't know whether we can or not, for 

Har. {looking at Bess.). Oh, I say, old man 



Bob. Come on. You can tear yourself away for a while, I 
guess, just for a run down to the post-office. 

{He drags Har. off l. The latter rather reluctant.') 

Pet. {aside to Mrs. K.). Mother, you know Bess has al- 
ways been my dearest friend ; may I not tell her 

Mrs. K. Do you think it would be wise, my dear ? 

Pet. I do. Bess is not the one to betray confidence. 

Mrs. K. Very well ; do as you wish. 

Pet. Thank you. {Kisses her.) Will you come with me, 
Bess? I have something to tell you. 

Dess. Something to tell me? How nice ! 

[Exeunt with arms around each other ^ R. 

Mrs. K, Dear child ; what a true and noble heart she has, 
and what a comfort she has always been to us. My heart aches 
to think that she is destined to share our troubles, when her life 

might have been so different perhaps, if Ah, who knows? 

{A kfiock heardy L.) Come in, please. {Enter Ezra atid 
Aman., l.) Back again, Amanda? I thought your work 

Aman. Work, Mis' Kingman ? I'd like to know how a 
body can think of work, much less do it, with things a-pilin' 
on top of one another the way they are a-doin' of t'-day, 

Mrs. K. Why, Amanda, you surprise me. What has hap- 
pened now? 

Aman. {beaming). You never could guess. Mis' Kingman; 
never in the world. 

Mrs. K. {amused^ looking at them curiously). Perhaps I 
could make a pretty good guess if I should try real hard. 

Aman. You tell her, Ezra. 

Ezra {bashfully). Oh, go 'long, Mandy ; yew do it. 

Aman. {firmly). No, it's the man's place. 

Ezra. Humph ! Well, all right. Ye see, Mis' Kingman, 
Mandy an' me was a-kinder talkin' things over after we'd left 
here a spell ago, an' we sorter decided as how — {dropping his 
hat) as how we might as well be gittin' — er — ye know, be git- 
tin' married. 

{Fulls hat along with his foot and picks it up.) 

Mrs. K. Why, Ezra, this is news indeed. I hope you 
will both be very happy. 



52 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

Ezra. Thank ye. I dunno's I see anythin* t' hender. Ye 
see I bin thinkin' about speakin' t' Mandy for some time, but 
sumhow I couldn't muster up spunk enuf t' ast her till t'-day. 

Aman. Yes, you know Ezra is sort of bashful like. But 
that ain't all we had to say. Mis' Kingman ; there's somethin' 
else. {Looks aroujid. ) Where's Jabez ? 

Mrs. K. In the other room. Would you like to see him ? 

Ezra. That's what. 

Mrs. K. (rising). I'll call him. (Goes R. ; calls off.) 
Jabez ! 

Enter Jabez, r. 

Jabez. What is it, mother? {Nods to Aman. andY.ZKk.') 

Mrs. K. Jabez, here's Amanda and Ezra back again. And 
what do you think ? They are going to be married. 

Jabez. Well, well, you don't tell me? I am surprised. 
{Shakes hands with them.) You certainly have my very best 
wishes for your future happiness. 

Aman. I told Ezra that's the way you'd both feel about it, 
an' that's the reason I wanted to tell you the very first ones. 
Another reason is — but I guess Ezra'd better tell about that. 

Ezra. Not much. I did tell about t'other ; now this is up 
t' yew. 

Aman. (laughing). Land sakes, yes. (Ardently.) Ezra 
says he's a good deal better at love than he is at business, an' I 
guess that's right ; says you can't expect too much of one man, 
an' I guess that's right, too. So mebby I'd better tell you 
what we was thinkin' of myself. Of course v/e know all about 
the bank business that's been troublin' you so long, Jabez, 
an' 

Jabez. Yes, it's no secret, Mandy, and I do not see that it 
would improve matters much if it was. 

Aman. That's just what I say. Well, then (Voices 

off \..) Somebody's comin'. 

Enter Capt., Bob and Har., l. The latter crosses to R. ; the 
other two stop at L. 

Har. Where is Bess ? 

Mrs. K. In the other room, I think. 

(Har. runs off r.) 

Capt. (aside to Bob). Remember, Braxton, when I say 
"the proof." 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 53 

Bob (also aside). I understand, but I say, Captain {puzzled^^ 
what does it all mean, anyway ? 

Capt. (mysleriously). Sh-h ! Wait. You'll know in good 
time. {Goes b. c.) Back again, Jabez. Ye know what they 
say about a bad penny. (^Chuckles.) But I guess they ain't 
always as bad as they look. {Looks around^ Where's th' 
girls ? 

Mrs. K. In the next room. {Anxiously.) Why, is there 
anything wrong ? 

Capt. H'm, no, not exactly. Call 'em in, please. 

Mrs. K. Right away. {Goes r. ; calls off.) Girls ! Girls! 

E filer Pet. and Bess., r. YIa.'r. follows. 

Pet. What is it, mother ? 

Mrs. K. Captain Stubbs has something to say to you, I 
think. 

Pet. To me? What is it, Captain? You are not going 
to scold me for anything, are you ? 

Capt. {smiling). Not this time, honey. But as I ain't 
much of a hand at beatin' 'round th' bush when there ain't any 
particklar need of it, I might as well say that I've got a leetle 
somethin' t' say t' your father and mother an' yourself that I'll 
be mighty glad t' get off o' my mind. 

Aman. Come on, Ezra. P'raps you an' I'd better be 

Capt. Hold on, Mandy ; stay right here. We're all old 
friends an' neighbors, an' what I have t' say is in no way 
private — ahem — leastwise 'twon't be after you 'n' Ez are gone. 
{Smiles.) So listen to me, please. {They group themselves at 
R. Capt. in b. c. Bob at l. e.) There are some points in 
that which I shall speak of which will be familiar to some of 
you, to the rest perhaps not so much so, but as all will be 
cleared up later I will ask you to keep your questions till I'm 
done. Is that satisfactory ? ( They all assent, but look at each 
other wonder ingly.) Good. {A slight pause.) Once upon a 
time, as the story books say, there was a worthy couple who 
kept a lighthouse on a lonely island, far off from a certain 
point on our coast. These people had a little child whom they 
loved very dearly, but whom they lost at a tender age. (Pet. 
and Bess, exchange glances ; Capt. looks at them warningly.) 
But while they were still in the depths of their grief, by a 
strange turn of fate, the husband, after a severe storm, found a 
little boat adrift upon the ocean, and in it he found a sweet 



54 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

little girl about three years old. (Bob, who has been listening 
intefiily, 7ioiv starts forward as if to speak, but Capt. waves 
him back.') These two people, deep in sorrow, looked upon 
the child as having been sent to them by the hand of Provi- 
dence to help lift the burden from their lives. They took it to 
their hearts and home, and loved it as their own. Here we 
will leave them for a little while and turn our story to Bay 
View, where 

Enter Sim, l., cautiously, Squiiits around room; finally 
locates Jabez, to whom he addresses himself in a stage 
whisper. 

Sim. Hey, Jabez, I come in t' tell ye that jest as I was 

a-goin' by I seen (^At a warning inotion from Capt., 

Bob claps o?ie hand over Sim's mouth afid menaces him with the 
other. Sim breaks away.) Hey, wha' da ye mean? I 

Ca^t. (sternly). Keep still, Freeman ! Wait! (^SiM obeys ; 
stands b. l., open-mouthed.) As I was saying, we now turn 
to Bay View, where, as you all remember, these two young 
men here put into port for supplies several months ago. {All 
look at the boys ; they look at each other.) On that same day 
one of them related to me a story — which, knowing the story 
of the little castaway, of whom 1 have just told you, provided 
me with a clue which led me to believe that her identity could 
be established. {Ifite?ise i?iterest displayed by those rjiost deeply 
cojicerned.) Since that day I have been working on that clue 
{glancing at Bess.), which will explain the frequent trips which 
I have lately made to different points. Now, I can say that my 
investigations have been crowned with success, and it only re- 
mains for me to submit {glancing at Bob) the proof of this 
statement. (At his cue Bob slips off l. Pet. goes and stands 
beside Jabez and Mrs. K. All three appear very much agi- 
tated. Bob retur?is, followed by a brisk, legal appearing man 
of ftiiddle age, also a lady of same age, who is closely veiled. 
They range up to left of Capt. Bob, l., then the lady, then the 
man, who stands next to Capt. Capt. to the rest.) Friends, 
this is Mr. Brief, a lawyer from New York. 

{All bow to Mr. Brief.) 

Pleased to meet you all, I'm sure. 

Sorry to have kept you waiting outside so long, sir, 




PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 55 

Brief (briskly). All right, all right, Captain, but (Jookmg 
at watch) I'll have to request you to be as expeditious as possi- 
ble. Important for me to make that train back. Identity is 
all we need to establish here. Legal formahties, inheritance, 
and so on, will follow. Now, then (Jurnifig to the lady)y Miss 
— er — Miss 

Cecile. Cecile. 

{She has already thrown back her veil, afid has been closely 
scanni7ig the faces opposite her , finally fixing her^ gaze on 
Pet., whom she regards with signs of lively emotion.) 

Brief. Well, Miss Cecile, see any one here who— er— re- 
sembles any one you ever knew, eh ? 

Cecile {very voluble). Oui, oui. Monsieur. {Points at 
Pet.) She— she— there, ze 

Brief {very brisk). H'm, which one ? One with the hght 
hair, eh ? 

Cecile. Non, non ; ze dark hair one. Ah, mon Dieu, eet 
ees she herself, ze verra eemage 

Brief. Image of whom ? Image of what ? 

Cecile. Of ze cher Madame. Oh, ze poor, poor 

{Wrings her hands.) 

Brief. Well, well, keep cool ; don't get excited. Captain 
Stubbs, think you mentioned something about some clothing — 
dresses — got 'em handy ? 

Capt. Mrs. Kingman, have you the 

Pet. Why, mother, how very strange ! He must mean 

They are in the next room. We were just looking. I'll 

Brief. Bring them in, if you please. 

Bess. Let me go, dear. {Runs off r.) . , , ., ,, ' 

Brief {to Cecile). Think you could recognize the child s 
clothing — dresses ? 

Cecile. Oui, Monsieur, je" sure, verra sure, ze— ze let- 

taire {Reenter Bess. ; she has child's clothing, which 

she hatids to Pet. The latter turns toward Cecile, who ex- 
amines dresses as she talks. All crowd around.) Ah— ma 
cher enfant. {Much affected.) See here. {Holds up one 
after another.) Ze lettaire W for ze nom Wethereel, and here 
(pointing), and here, zey air ze verra same. {She is hyster- 
ical; kisses garments.) Ah, mon Dieu, mon 

Brief. Now— now, calm yourself. {Signs to Pet., who 



56 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

lays garments aside.) That'll do for them. Now, what was 
the child's name, eh ? ^ 

Cecile (^puzzled'). Je non com 

Brief. Humph! {Scratches head.') Er — name — er — nom 
— nom ? 

Cecile. Ah, oui, ze nom (Jhifikifig ) in ze French Espoir, 
ze Anglais — you want — wis 

Brief. Want? Wish? Ho 



Cecile. Oui, oui. Monsieur, zat it was, Hope — Hope. 

Bob {excitedly). That was the name. I remem 

Brief (to Bob). Just a moment, please. {To Cecile.) 

Anything more now by way of identification ? \She does not 

understafid.) Humph! Any — any marks? 

{Makes appropriate gestures.) 

Cecile. Je comprend. Zere, look {pointi7ig at ner own 
neck), ze burn, ze — what you call him ? — Ze scaire. 

Brief. Ha! a scar, did you say ? (7i? Pet.) Anything 
there ? 

Mrs. K. Yes, yes! {Turns Pet. around; lifts hair at 
back.) Look ! 

Cecile. Ah, ma cher, ma cher. {Falls at Fet.'s feet; 
kisses iier hands.) Forgeef me, forgeef me. {Weeps.) 

Pet. {raising her). Freely, fully; but I do not understand. 

{She looks fro7n one to another.) 

Bess. Poor soul, come with me. 

{Leads the weepifig Cecile offvL., returning quickly,) 

Brief. That'll do. Well, well. Captain {rubbing his ha fids) ^ 
fine day's work, very fine, but {looking at watch) time's up ; got 
to hurry. {To Pet.) Congratulate you. Miss Wetherill. 
Ha, ha ! Good name, that. Large estate. Hear from me 
soon. Good-day, all. {Shakes hands with Ckvi.) Write to- 
morrow. Good-bye. 

{Starts L. Sim, who has been looking the New York lawyer 
over admiringly, stops hi?n at L. Sim displays his badge, 
twirls his mace, and strikes an attitude. Brief regards 
him with lively curiosity, tur^is him arou7id for further 
inspection, seems highly amused.) 



PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 57 

Sim {aside to Brief in stage whisper). Say, Colonel, d'ye 
want me t' 'rest that thare woman ? 

Brief. Bless me, no. Let her alone. 

Sim. All right. Jess so. But if you should change your 
mind you know where t' find me. 

(Winks. Brief iaugks / hurries off l.) ' 

Pet. (imploringly). Captain Stubbs, please — please tell me 
what it all means ? 

Capt. My dear, in a few words, it means that you are the 
daughter of James Wetherill and wife, deceased, distant rela- 
tives of our young friend Braxton here. Also that you will 
come into possession of a large estate as soon as 

Pet. Wait, wait. {Steps betiveefi Jabez and his wife.) 
All I want to know now is this : Does it mean that I shall be 
able to help these dear ones out of their trouble? 

Capt. {chuckling). Does it? Well, I reckon it does. 

Pet. {looking at them lovi?igly). Then I can wait to know 
the rest. Mother, father, do you hear ? Do you remember 
what I said about looking for the silver lining in the cloud ? 
Now 

Mrs. K. {embracing her). My dear, dear heart. My Storm 
Child. 

(Jabez wipes his eyes.) 

Aman. Well, I never ! How things do come about ! And 
this reminds me of what I started to say when Cap'n Stubbs 
come in. You see, Ezra an' me was thinkin' we'd like to buy 
th* store from you, Jabez, if there was any way it could be ar- 
ranged. Do you think 

Capt. Of course it can be. Just th' thing, I snum. 

Ezra {swelling up). Yes, sir, I'm a-goin' t' turn store- 
keeper, an* 

Sim. By th' great lobsters, Ez, yew don't say so? I'll come 
in once in a 

Ezra {meaningly). Yes, I be, Sim. An' when I be, yew 
can jess bet thare won't be enny loafin' or enny free lunch hand- 
outs down in my store fer a lot o' good-for-nothin' scalawags 
what don't know a burgler from a salt herrin'. 

Sim. Hey? {Afigry.) Dew ye mean me, Ez Green? 

Ezra. Well, if th' shoe pinches, Sim, ye don't haf ter 
wear it. 



58 PETREL, THE STORM CHILD 

Sim. Humph I (Retires l.) 

Bob (Jo Pet.). Do you release me from my promise ? Am 
I free to speak now ? ( Takes her hand.) 

Pet. I — 1 — really {Co f if used.) 

Bob. Friends, I rejoice with you in the good fortune which 
has come to those whom we all honor so highly, but / have a 
cause for rejoicing which is greatest of all. For in the heart 
of this dear girl, Petrel no longer, but Hope, my Hope of many 
happy years to come, 1 have gained a prize which is beyond all 
price. 

(Pet. lays her head on Bob's shoulder. He kisses her.) 



Pet. 


Bob. 


Mrs. K. 


Capt. 


Jabez. 


Bess. 


Aman. 


Har. 


Ezra. 


Sim. 



SLOW CURTAIN 



New Plays 



THE DEACON'S SECOND WIFE 
A Comedy in Three Acts 

By Allan Abbott 
Six males, six females. Costumes modern ; scenery, one interior, one 
exterior. Plays two hours and a half. A play of rural life specially 
written for school performance. All the parts are good and of nearly 
equal opportunity, and the piece is full of laughs. Easy to produce ; no awk- 
ward sentimental scenes ; can be strongly recommended for high schoolSc. 
Price, 2^ cents 
CHARACTERS 
^As originally P', oduced under the title of "Back to Nature, ^^ at The 
Horace Mann School, New York, by the Senior Class of jgog^ 
for the benefit of The Athletic Field.) 
(In order of their first entrance) 
Malvina Fitz, the Deacon's "first wife,^^ 
Deacon Barachias Fitz, a bigamist in spite of himself, 
Milton George Washington Fitz, a good specimen of Yeunj^ 

America. 
Nancy Melissa Fitz, his sister — a close second, 
Mrs. Brown, who likes to Uend to things. 
Kate Rollins, the Deacon'' s " second wifeJ'^ 
John D. Bullock, a captain of industry, 
Mrs. Bullock, his boss. 
Dorothy Bullock, an up-to-date society girl. 
Hartley Bullock, author of ^^ Why Boys Leave the Farm^ 
Earnest Rench, about everything there is, 
Philip Gamboge, professional painter and amateur speculator^ 

LOOKING FOR MORE 

A Farce in One Act 

By Clarence Mansfield Lindsay 

Four males, two females. Costumes modern; scene, an interior. Plays 

ihirty minutes. A very easy and lively farce that can be recommended for 

performance by young people. The parts are very evenly divided in ap« 

portunity and effective without being in the least difficultc 

Price, 75 cents 

WHAT HAPPENED 

A Sketch in One Act 

Two female characters. Costumes modern : scenery unimportant. Plays 
ten minutes. A very slight but very funny skit, suitable lor a programme 
or for a drawing-room performance without the least preparation in the 
way ot properties. A sure success if played rapidly. 
Price, IS cent 



New Plays 



THE PRIVATE TUTOR • 

A Farce in Three Acts 

By E. J. Whisler 

Five male, three female characters. Costumes, modern ; scenery, two 
simple interiors Plays two hours. A very brisk and amusing recital of 
the endeavors of two college boys to disguise the fact that they have been 
" rusticated '' from the family of one of them. Hans Dinklederfer. the 
leader of a German band, trying to make good in the character of a private 
tutor, IS a scream. All the parts are good and the piece full of action. A 
capital high-school play and strongly recommended for this purpose. 

Price, 2^ cents 

CHARACTERS 

Fred Spencer, who believes that experience is the best teacher. 

George Carothers, his chum, who also seeks experience. 

Mr. Spencer, his father, who owns an oil well, 

Hans Dinklederfer, his laidoiiig, the leader of a little German 

oattd. 
Richard, servant at the Spencers . 
Mrs. Spencer, Ned's mother, who feels the responsibility of the oil 

well arid has social aspirations. 
Dolly Spencer, his sister, who has a mind of her own. 
Miss Snap, a detective. 

SYNOPSIS 

Act I.— Fred Spencer's rooms at Clearfield College. 
Act II.— The Spencer home. One week after Act L 
Act III.— The Spencer home. Ten minutes after Act II. 

MISS PARKINGTON 

A Farce in One Act 

By May E. Comitryman 
_ One male, three female characters. Costumes modern ; scene, an easv 
interior. Plays twenty-five minutes. A bright little piece of misunder- 
standing in which a bashful young man has a narrow escape from pro- 
posing to the wrong Miss Parkington. Easy and effective; four capital 
mend d^" anywhere, with or without scenery. Strongly recom' 

Price, /J cents 



New Plays 



THE COLLEGE CHAP 

A Comedy- Drama in Three Acts 
By Harry L. Newton and John Pierre Roche 
Eleven males, seven females. Costumes, modern ; scenery, two inte- 
riors Plays two and a half hours. An admirable play for amateurs. Ab- 
solut'ely American in spirit and up-to-date; full of sympathetic mterest 
but plenty of comedy ; lots of healthy sentiment, but nothmg " mushy. 
Just the thing for high schools ; sane, effective, and not difficult. 
Price, 2 J cents 
CHARACTERS 
Elijah Gooding, a village product. 
Seth Hines./w^/ as tired. 
Art Wimpel, chief clerk. Occidental Hotel. 
Samuel Crane, proprietor of the Occidental Hotel. 
Starr Qi. ay , promoter of Jay 1. C. Trolley Line. 
Bart Y.kyq>^. factotum of the ''Clarion." 
John Drew Irving, advance agent and drummer* 
Will Sellum, a traveling salesman. 
Bill, a bell-boy. 
George, another. 
Dave Crane, the college chap. 
Sallie Crane, in love with Art, 
Mrs. Jane Crane, the jtiother. 
Madge Clay, the girl. 
Gertie P^lye, the news stand girl. 
Mrs. Mortimer Jones-Brown, a progressive woman. 
Mrs. Heziah Jenks, of the Chester Culture Club. 
Miss Margaret Seymour, secretary of Chester Culture Club, 
SYNOPSIS 
Act I.— Office of the Occidental Hotel. 
Act II.— Office of the Chester Clarion, six months later. 
Act Ili.— Office of the Occidental Hotel, eight months later. 

A TELEGRAM FROM DAD 

A Farce in One Act 

By J. M. Taylor 
Six males, one female ; the latter can be played by a man. Costumes, 
modern; scene, an interior. Plays thirty minutes. A college farce, very 
swift and snappy. Recommended. IVice, 15 cents. 

SPECIAL DELIVERY 

A Farce in Une Act 
By D. M. Henderson 
Three males, two females. Costumes modern ; scenery, one interior. 
Plays twenty minutes. A brisk and snappy little farce, easy and amusing. 
Suited for any use. Price, ij ctnts 



New Plays 



MR. EASYMAN'S NIECE 

A Farcical Comedy in Four Acts 
By Belle Marshall Locke 

Six males, four females. Costumes modern ; scenery, two interiors and 
one easy exterior that may be played indoors if desired. Plays a full even- 
ing. A clever and vivacious play, full of fun and action. Mr. Easyman's 
fad of spiritualism leads him into a difiiculty that is a source of endless 
amusement to the audience. Irish and old maid comedy parts. Can b« 
recommended. 

Price, 2_5 cents 

CHARACTERS 

Mr. Stephen Easyman, a wealthy Mr. Sharpe, a detective, 

broker. Miss Judith Carroll, a maidei 

Mr. Carew Carlton, ^/j nephew. au?it. 

Mr. Tom Ashleigh. Mrs. Easyman, ) her 

Jackson, a servajit. Miss Bessie Carroll, j nieces„ 

Michael Flynn. Desdemona, the ghost, 

A PAIR OF BURGLARS 

By Byroft P, Glenn 

Two males, two females. One act. Costumes modern ; scenery, an 
easy interior. Plays half an hour. A brisk little curtain raiser of the 
" vaudeville " type, moving all the time. Easy and effective j all the parts 
young people and well-dressed. Strongly recommended. 

Price y i^ cents 



DANE'S DRESS-SUIT CASE 

By Robert C, K Meyert 

Two males, one female. One act. Cost luiies modern ; scene, an easy 
interior. Plays fifteen minutes. An exce-i ut short play to fill out a bil 
or to fill in an intermission. All action and lots of fun. All parts yooi^ 
and well-dressed. 

Pric€, IS cents 



New Plays 



RED ACRE FARM 

A Rural Comedy Drama in Three Acts 

By Gordan K May 

Author of "Bar Haven," "At Random Run,'* etc. 

Seven males, five females. Costumes, modern ; scenery, one interior, 

one exterior. Plays Uvo hours. An easy and entertaining play with a 

well-balanced cast of characters. The story is stiong an, 1 sympathetic and 

the comedy element varied and amusing. Barnaby Strutt is a great part 

for a good comedian ; '« Junior " a close second. Strongly recommended. 

Price t 2^ cents 

CHARACTERS 
JosiAH Armstrong, the owner of Red Acre Farm, 
Colonel Barnaby Strutt, "Crawling Codwoliopers*'"' 
Jonah Jones, a farm helper. 
Squire Harcourt, who holds a mortgage, 
Harry Harcourt, his profligate son. 
Dick Randall, who seeks his fortune, 
Tom Busby, a traveling merchant. 
Amanda Armstrong, Josians wife. 
Nellie Armstrong, drivetifrom home. 
Laura Armstrong, a poor, weak sinner. 
Mrs. Barnaby Strutt, the Colonel's wife, 
** Junior," adopted daughter of the Si'utts, 

SYNOPSIS 
Act I. — Living-room of Armstrong's home. Spring. 
Act n. — Garden in front of Armstrong's home. Summeffo 
Act HL — Same as Act L Winter. 

THE SPEED LIMIT 

A Sketch in Two Scenes 
By Ernest M. Gould 
Five males. Costumes, modern ; scenery, unnecessary. Plays twenty 
minutes. A good-natured and effective skit on automobiling, very funny 
and very easy to get up. It requires no scenery or stage, but can be done 
on a platform just as well. Its fun is extravagant, but it is otherwise 
suited for school performance. Pricey ij cents 

« WILLIAM " 

A Farce in One Act 

By W, C. Parker 

Two ma^es, two females. Costumes, modern ; scene, an interior* 

Plays twenty minutes. A brisk httle piece of the vaudeville order, easy 

siad full of laughs. All three parts are good ; strongly recommendedL 

Pries f dj i;ems 



New Farces and Comedies 

GADSBY^S GIRLS . 

A Farce in Three Acts 

^V Bertha Currier Porter 
Five males, four females. Costumes modern ; scenery, an exterior and 
an interior. Plays an hour and a half. An exceptionally bright and 
vivacious little piece, full of action. The irrepressible Gadsby's adven- 
tures with the fiancees of three of his friends are full of interest and fun, 
^1 the parts good. Well suited for High School performance. 
Price, 25 cents 

CHARACTERS 

Richard Stanley, a lawyer, 

Joseph Parker, a clerk, 

Morris Young, a medical student. 

Steve, the farm boy. Friendly, but not kquacious, 

Mabel Y^^ya^^, frivolous and dressy ; engaged to Richard, 

Esther Carroll, botanical and birdy ; engaged to Joseph, 

Grace Chester, just girl; engaged to Morris. 

Mrs. Dodge, who takes boarders. 

Maximilian Hunnewell Gadsby, a butterfly, 

THE GIRL WHO PAID THE BILLS 

A Comedy in One Act 

By Nina Rhoades 

Two males, four females. Costumes modern ; scene, an easy interior. 
Plays thirty-five minutes. A clever piece of high class, admirably written 
and suited to the best taste. A pretty little love story, wholesome and un- 
seutimental in tone. Well recommended. 

Pricey 75" cents 

THE FIFTH COMMANDMENT 
A Play in One Act 

By Willis Steel! 
Three males, one female. Costumes modem ; scene, an interior. 
Plays twenty minutes. An easy piece of strong dramatic interest, origi- 
nally produced in Vaudeville by Julius Steger. Free to amateurs; royalty 
required for professional performance. 

j Price i i^ cents 



B. UJ. Piiiero's Plays 

Price, 50 0e U^ €acb 



IVIin.rHANNFT Play in Four Acts. Six males, five females. 
iniu ViiAiiiii^Li Costumes, modern; scenery, three interiors. 
Plays two and a half hours. 

THE NOTORIOUS MRS. EBBSMITH ^l^r^E^^Tt 

males, five females. Costumes, modern; scenery, all interiors. 
Plays a full evening. 

THF PROFIiriATF Playin Four Acts. Seven males, five 
AtiLi 1 A\v/£ l^ivi/^ 1 Lj females. Scenery, three interiors, rather 
elaborate ; costumes, modern. Plays a full evening, 

THE SCHOOLMISTRESS £,";»",? 'fe;!;^S.^"&SeTmo'd: 

ern; scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening. 

THE SECOND MRS. TANQUERAY l]lirIS!^,Xe 

females. Costumes, modern; scenery, three interiors. Plays a 
full evening. 

CWFFT T AVFWnFR Comedyln Three Acts. Seven males, 
OTTLiL.! JL./\Vi:.llLri:.IV four females. Scene, a single interior, 
costumes, modern. Plays a full evening. 

THF THITNnFRRniT comedy in Four Acts. Ten males, 
lllL, l^^%J^^Ul:,S\0\JL,l nine females. Scenery, three interi- 
ors} costumes, modern. Plays a full evening. 

THF TIMF^ Comedy in Four Acts. Six males, seven females. 
lltLi milLiU Scene. a single interior; costumes, modern. Plays 
a full evening. 

THF WFAK'FR SFY comedy in Three Acts. Eight males, 
1111:1 TT i:ii^l\.i:il\ OSJA. eight females. Costumes, modern; 
scenery, two interiors. Plays a full evening. 

A WIFE WITHOUT A SMILE ^SL,^,;^^^,^ 

Costumes, modern ; scene, a single interior. Plays a full evening. 

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AS Yftll I \KV IT Comedy in Five Acts. Thirteen males, four 
AO IVD LtiikL, If females. Costumes, picturesque ; scenery, va- 
ried. Plays a full evening. 

CAIWFIIF I^^ai^a in Five Acts. Nine males, five females. Cos- 
s/aanLtLiLi tumes, modern ; scenery, varied. Plays a full evening. 

INHOMAR ^^^^ "^ ^'^^® ^^*^- Thirteen males, three females. 
iMUViTiAiy Scenery varied ; costumes, Greek. Plays a full evening. 

IWARY STUART Tragedy in Five Acts. Thirteen males, four fe- 
iiiniyt >j ivi\n.M. males, and supernumeraries. Costumes, of the 
period ; scenery, varied and elaborate. Plays a full evening, 

TBE MERCHANT OF VENICE S°aTet?^?eIiZtS IV^^!^. 

picturesque ; scenery varied. Plays a full evening. 

RICHFI IFF ^^*y ^° ^^"^^ ^<^ts. Fifteen males, two females. Scen- 
nivitL(LfiLru ery elaborate ; costumes of the period. Plays a full 
evening. 

THF RfVAT S comedy in Five Acts. Nine males, five females. 
M. HI, 111 f rttfk? Scenery varied ; costumes of the period. Plays a 
full evening. 

SHE STOOPS TO CONQUER S,X%i? Sencen^/^t"^ 

ried ; costumes of the period. Plays a full evening. 

TWELFTH NIfiHT; OR, WHAT YOU WILL Sr^eo^ma"™ 

three females. Costumes, picturesque : scenery, varied. Plays a 
full evening. » j > j 



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